跨海论汉｜美国汉学家何谷理：我依然是十七世纪中国文学的大粉丝

Core Viewpoint - The publication of "Seventeenth-Century Chinese Novels" marks a significant contribution to the understanding of Chinese literature, particularly focusing on lesser-known works from the 17th century that provide unique social insights [1][4]. Group 1: Author Background - Robert E. Hegel, an esteemed professor emeritus at Washington University in St. Louis, has dedicated his career to the study of classical Chinese narrative literature, particularly Ming and Qing novels [3]. - Hegel's notable works include "Reading Illustrated Fiction in Late Imperial China" and translations of various Chinese literary texts, showcasing his extensive engagement with Chinese literature [3][4]. Group 2: Publication Significance - "Seventeenth-Century Chinese Novels" was first published in 1981 and has been recognized as a classic in American sinology, highlighting the importance of this period in Chinese literary history [1][3]. - The book provides a detailed analysis of several novels, including "Journey to the West Supplement" and "The History of Sui," revealing a vibrant literary world during the Ming and Qing dynasties [1][4]. Group 3: Research Focus - Hegel's interest in 17th-century Chinese novels stems from a lack of scholarly attention to this period, prompting him to explore the available works and their cultural significance [8][12]. - The novels discussed in Hegel's research often reflect personal perspectives and innovative storytelling, diverging from traditional narratives [13][19]. Group 4: Cultural and Historical Context - The novels of the 17th century serve as a means of escapism and intellectual engagement for educated readers, allowing them to reflect on contemporary societal issues through historical narratives [16][19]. - Hegel emphasizes that the political turmoil of the late Ming period paradoxically fostered a literary flourishing, similar to patterns observed in Western literature during times of crisis [18]. Group 5: Literary Analysis - Hegel notes that the commercial aspect of novel publishing in 17th-century China was complex, with many high-quality novels being expensive and not primarily aimed at profit [11][12]. - The cultural significance of these novels often lies in their intricate references and allusions, which require a deep understanding of the historical and philosophical context to fully appreciate [12][23]. Group 6: Translation and Impact - Hegel's translations of works like "The Heroic Adventures of Qin Shubao" and "Journey to the West Supplement" aim to make these texts accessible to a broader audience, highlighting their literary and cultural value [34][42]. - His work has contributed to correcting misconceptions about Chinese literature and its historical context, providing a more nuanced understanding of its development [42].