The Treasure House of Ancient Chinese Literature and Art

Abstract

With distinctive features and generations of renowned artists, ancient Chinese literature and art can boast great achievements and their own aesthetic systems. They occupy a very important position in the global history of ancient literature and art. In terms of literature, there have survived masterpieces in poetry, ci (lyrics), qu (lyric song), fu (the ode), prose, pianwen (parallel prose), fiction, and drama that are both profound in thinking and beautiful in form. In the other arts, there have survived treasures of deep intrinsic meaning and a variety of styles, whether we look at calligraphy, painting, music, dance, sculpture, architecture, or craft. To explore the treasures of ancient Chinese literature and art is a project of great significance, and so too is to inherit the fine traditions of literature and art of our own nation, which may increase our national self-confidence. The following chapter takes into account literature, calligraphy, painting, music, and dance when illustrating the great achievements of ancient Chinese literature and art.