Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the historical significance of the "Peking University Red Building" as a site of revolutionary activities and cultural movements in China, particularly its role in the May Fourth Movement and the early dissemination of Marxism in China. Historical Significance - The Red Building, completed in 1918, served as the main site for Peking University, housing the library and various departments, and has undergone multiple renovations since the founding of New China [4]. - It is now a key venue for showcasing the New Culture Movement, the May Fourth Movement, and the early activities of the Communist Party in Beijing, with six original sites restored to reflect historical scenes [5]. Educational Impact - The building hosts over 2,000 artifacts, documents, and artworks that are significant to the history of Marxism's introduction to China, including early student exam papers graded by Li Dazhao [7]. - The Red Building has developed various educational programs, including lectures and workshops, aimed at engaging students with red culture and history [11]. Student Engagement - Students from various universities express a deepened understanding of history through their visits, feeling a connection to the revolutionary spirit of their predecessors [3][17]. - The building has a volunteer guide program, with students actively participating in sharing the history and significance of the artifacts on display [13][15]. Cultural Legacy - The Red Building has become a hub for cultural activities, including the "Awakening Era" research activities, which encourage students to explore and contribute to the understanding of revolutionary history [11]. - The site attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, fostering a sense of continuity and responsibility among the youth to carry forward the legacy of their forebears [15][17].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the historical significance of the "Peking University Red Building" as a site of revolutionary activities and cultural movements in China, particularly during the May Fourth Movement and the early dissemination of Marxism in China [1][5][11]. Group 1: Historical Significance - The Red Building, completed in 1918, served as the main site for Peking University, housing the library and various departments, and has been preserved to showcase the history of the New Culture Movement and the early activities of the Communist Party in Beijing [5][11]. - It features restored original sites such as the library director's office and classrooms, allowing visitors to connect with the revolutionary past [5][12]. - The building is home to over 2,000 artifacts, documents, and artworks that serve as valuable evidence of Marxism's introduction to China [5][9]. Group 2: Educational Impact - The Red Building has developed various educational programs, including lectures and workshops, aimed at engaging students with the history and significance of the site [11][14]. - It collaborates with schools to create interactive learning experiences, such as the "Awakening Era" research activities, which allow students to explore red history and gain both knowledge and spiritual insights [12][14]. - The building has become a popular destination for students, with many expressing a deeper understanding of their historical responsibilities after visiting [20][21]. Group 3: Community Engagement - A volunteer team of hundreds, including students, actively participates in guiding visitors and sharing the stories behind the artifacts, enhancing the educational experience [16][18]. - The Red Building attracts tens of thousands of visitors annually, who come to reflect on the struggles and achievements of past generations [18][20]. - The site fosters a sense of continuity in the pursuit of national rejuvenation, with current youth drawing inspiration from the revolutionary ideals of their predecessors [20][21].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the modern transformation of the Book of Songs (Shijing) from 1901 to 1931, highlighting how it evolved from a Confucian classic to a literary work, influenced by political changes, educational reforms, and modern literary concepts [2][3][6]. Group 1: Historical Context - The transformation of the Book of Songs began with the collapse of the Confucian moral system following the end of the feudal imperial system and the establishment of a republican government in late Qing [3][6]. - The May Fourth Movement emphasized the need to overthrow old morals and establish new ones, leading to a re-evaluation of the Book of Songs to incorporate modern values [2][3]. Group 2: Educational Influence - The Book of Songs was included in modern educational curricula, serving as a foundation for ethical education and the cultivation of patriotic citizens [3][5]. - Educational reforms, such as the 1902 and 1904 school regulations, maintained the Book of Songs as a required subject, emphasizing its role in shaping national morality [5][6]. Group 3: Literary Reinterpretation - Scholars during the May Fourth period sought to detach the Book of Songs from its traditional Confucian interpretations, viewing it instead as a work of early vernacular literature [6][8]. - The emphasis on personal emotion and expression in modern literature aligned with the Book of Songs' themes, leading to its reclassification as a significant literary work [8][11]. Group 4: Cultural Identity and Nationalism - The Book of Songs was positioned as a foundational text in the construction of national identity, reflecting the complexities of Chinese literature's evolution in the context of global literary trends [12][13]. - The integration of folk traditions and the study of popular songs were seen as essential for understanding national consciousness and social dynamics [9][11]. Group 5: Methodological Challenges - The application of scientific methods in interpreting the Book of Songs faced limitations, as scholars often imposed modern values onto ancient texts, complicating the understanding of their original meanings [13][15]. - The challenges of cross-cultural literary analysis highlighted the difficulties in reconciling Western literary frameworks with Chinese literary traditions [15].

Core Viewpoint - The book "Abandoning Husbands: The Lives and Crimes of Lower-Class Women in Wartime Beijing (1937-1949)" explores the harsh realities faced by lower-class women during a tumultuous period in Beijing's history, revealing how economic instability and societal pressures led to criminal behaviors as survival strategies [1][2]. Group 1: Historical Context - The period from 1937 to 1949 in Beijing was marked by Japanese occupation, civil unrest, and economic collapse, severely impacting the lives of ordinary citizens [1]. - The author utilizes extensive judicial archives to reconstruct the lives of lower-class women, focusing on cases of adultery, abduction, and bigamy to uncover the underlying causes of these actions [1][4]. Group 2: Social Dynamics - The book highlights the distinction between elite women active in public life and the marginalized lower-class women who navigated societal challenges through informal "rules" [1][3]. - The concept of "lower class" is described as a fluid space rather than a strict category, encompassing individuals who may not be destitute but still face significant social and economic challenges [7][8]. Group 3: Gender and Power - The narratives of these women reflect a lack of agency in their lives, often relying on their husbands for economic support, which becomes precarious in times of crisis [19][20]. - The book contrasts the experiences of lower-class women with the more privileged narratives of female liberation, emphasizing the absence of revolutionary sentiments among these women [22][24]. Group 4: Judicial Insights - The judicial archives provide a unique perspective on the lives of these women, revealing their voices and experiences through their testimonies in court [4][6]. - The legal framework of the time did not adequately address the complexities of marital obligations, leading to a disconnect between legal definitions and lived realities [19][20]. Group 5: Urbanization and Mobility - The development of transportation and urban infrastructure during this period allowed women greater mobility, facilitating their ability to escape oppressive domestic situations [25][26]. - The changing urban landscape, characterized by the breakdown of traditional living arrangements, contributed to the emergence of new social dynamics and opportunities for women [9][10]. Group 6: Research Methodology - The author emphasizes the importance of using judicial records to access the lived experiences of marginalized groups, highlighting the differences between cultural and legal historical materials [27][30]. - The focus on individual cases rather than quantitative analysis allows for a deeper understanding of the personal narratives behind the statistics [36][37].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the significance of Huang Binhong's artistic philosophy and contributions to Chinese painting, particularly highlighting his four foundational theories: "Te Jian Yao," "Nei Mei," "Bu Qi," and "Min Xue" [1][4][22]. Summary by Categories Huang Binhong's Life and Background - Huang Binhong, born on January 27, 1865, was a prominent figure in modern Chinese art, engaging in various roles such as painter, calligrapher, and educator [1][3]. - His life spanned significant historical events, including the Hundred Days' Reform and the founding of the People's Republic of China, influencing his artistic and cultural perspectives [3][4]. Artistic Philosophy - Huang Binhong's artistic philosophy emphasizes the importance of cultural mission and the role of art in shaping national spirit, advocating for the use of painting as a "Te Jian Yao" or "special medicine" for the nation [12][13]. - He believed that art should reflect the inner beauty ("Nei Mei") and moral character of the artist, asserting that true art captures the essence of nature and the universe [17]. The Four Foundational Theories 1. **Te Jian Yao**: This concept refers to the idea of using art as a remedy for societal issues, promoting the notion that painting can heal and uplift the national spirit [12][13]. 2. **Nei Mei**: Huang emphasized the distinction between inner and outer beauty, arguing that true artistic expression comes from understanding the deeper essence of nature [17]. 3. **Bu Qi**: He advocated for the appreciation of individuality and non-conformity in art, suggesting that beauty lies in asymmetry and uniqueness rather than uniformity [20]. 4. **Min Xue**: Huang positioned painting within the realm of "Min Xue," promoting freedom of thought and expression, contrasting it with the restrictive "Jun Xue" that served the elite [22]. Influence and Legacy - Huang Binhong's work and theories have had a lasting impact on the evolution of Chinese painting, bridging traditional techniques with modern artistic expressions [4][22]. - His approach to integrating Western artistic movements while maintaining a strong foundation in Chinese cultural heritage reflects a unique perspective in the discourse of art history [22].

Core Viewpoint - The conference commemorating the 110th anniversary of the publication of "New Youth" highlights the significance of "New Culture" and "New Literature" in shaping modern Chinese thought and literature, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive understanding of their historical richness and contemporary relevance [1][3][20]. Group 1: Conference Overview - The event was organized by Zhejiang University and the Zhejiang Provincial Modern Literature Research Association, featuring over 60 scholars from various institutions, including Peking University and Waseda University [1][3]. - Keynote speeches emphasized the role of Zhejiang in the New Culture Movement, noting its contribution to modern literature and the importance of "New Youth" in promoting ideological enlightenment and literary revolution [3][4][5]. Group 2: Historical Context and Contributions - The conference discussed the historical contributions of figures like Lu Xun and Mao Dun, highlighting Zhejiang's role as a birthplace for significant literary and ideological developments [4][5]. - The importance of "New Youth" in fostering a dialogue between traditional and modern cultural elements was underscored, with discussions on its impact on Marxism's dissemination in China [3][5]. Group 3: Thematic Reports - Scholars presented diverse perspectives on the complexities of "New Culture" and "New Literature," addressing issues such as the relationship between modern literature and political enlightenment [7][9]. - The reports explored the modernity of "New Literature," tracing its roots to various historical influences, including shifts in values and the evolution of language [9][10]. Group 4: Regional and Cultural Dynamics - The discussions included the regional characteristics of the New Culture Movement, with scholars analyzing the cultural traits of Jiangnan and the impact of local education practices [15]. - The interaction between Chinese modern literature and Southeast Asian literature was examined, revealing mutual influences and the emergence of new literary forms [13]. Group 5: Methodological Innovations - The conference showcased innovative methodologies in literary research, emphasizing the importance of historical context and interdisciplinary approaches [18][20]. - Scholars advocated for a nuanced understanding of the New Culture Movement, distinguishing it from the May Fourth Movement to clarify their distinct historical trajectories [12][14].

Core Viewpoint - The drama "If Life Were as It Was at First Sight" reflects on China's historical struggles and transformations, particularly during the late Qing Dynasty, and serves as a reminder of the past while offering insights for the future [1][2]. Group 1: Historical Context - The series focuses on the period from 1900 to 1912, highlighting the last years of the Qing Dynasty and the impact of the Boxer Rebellion and the signing of the Boxer Protocol in 1901, which marked China's deep entrenchment in a semi-colonial state [1][2]. - The narrative intertwines fictional stories with real historical events, aiming to evoke reflection on past humiliations and the decline of the Qing Dynasty [1][2]. Group 2: Themes and Character Focus - The drama portrays a group of young revolutionaries and patriots who strive to transform the concept of "nation" from a monarch's possession to a collective identity for the people [3]. - It emphasizes the limitations of these idealists, who, despite their aspirations, lacked the foundational beliefs necessary to effectively reshape the nation, leading to a fragmented political landscape post-revolution [3]. Group 3: Educational and Cultural Impact - The series aims to educate viewers about the historical context of China's modernization and the role of youth in shaping national destiny, reflecting on the importance of remembering past struggles to foster a resilient future [2][3].

Core Viewpoint - The exhibition "New Youth · New Awakening - Commemorating the 110th Anniversary of the 'New Youth' Magazine" highlights the historical significance of the magazine in promoting cultural and ideological liberation in China, marking a pivotal moment in the New Culture Movement and the May Fourth Movement [1][3]. Group 1: Exhibition Details - The exhibition consists of two main sections: "Igniting the Torch of New Culture" and "Sounding the Horn of a New Era," showcasing historical materials, images, and artifacts that vividly depict the background, process, and significance of the New Culture Movement and the May Fourth Movement [3]. - A total of 76 valuable cultural relics are displayed, including 2 national first-class cultural relics, 1 national second-class cultural relic, and 3 national third-class cultural relics, allowing visitors to revisit that remarkable historical period [3]. Group 2: Cultural Significance - Lu Xun, a key contributor to the "New Youth" magazine, published several important works in it, including China's first vernacular novel "A Madman's Diary," establishing a lasting connection between Lu Xun and the magazine [5]. - A strategic cooperation framework agreement was signed between the Shaoxing Lu Xun Memorial Hall and the Beijing Lu Xun Museum, aiming for in-depth collaboration in Lu Xun cultural research and exhibitions [5].

Group 1 - The concept of "youth" and "young China" became familiar among Chinese intellectuals by 1905, influenced by Liang Qichao, leading to a wave of revolutionary and literary figures adopting "youth" as part of their identity [1][3] - The late Qing Dynasty was marked by a sense of optimism among progressive intellectuals who sought to revitalize traditional values to rejuvenate the nation, seeing opportunities for change amidst the collapse of the Qing Empire [3][5] - The emergence of modern education in China began during the Self-Strengthening Movement in the 1860s, with institutions established to teach foreign languages and modern sciences, culminating in systemic reforms in 1898 [4][5] Group 2 - The abolition of the imperial examination system in 1905 marked a significant shift in the educational landscape, allowing for the establishment of modern schools that fostered new ways of thinking and social engagement among youth [5][10] - Prominent intellectuals like Lu Xun and Guo Moruo experienced transformative moments in modern schools, which shaped their understanding of modernity and individual identity [6][9] - The modern student movement began in 1902, with students organizing politically motivated groups, reflecting a growing sense of national consciousness and activism among the youth [15][16] Group 3 - The rise of modern education created a foundation for student movements, which became crucial in the revolutionary activities leading up to the 1911 Revolution, as students sought to liberate themselves from traditional constraints [10][15] - The narrative of youth in revolutionary literature often highlighted the tension between individual self-realization and collective national identity, as seen in the works of various authors [29][30] - The ideals of personal freedom and ethical self-awareness became central themes in the literature of the time, reflecting a broader cultural shift towards modernity and individualism [30][29]

Group 1 - The literary revolution during the New Culture Movement is often misunderstood, with scholars like Hu Shi and Zhou Zuoren noting that the success of this movement is often overestimated [1][2] - Hu Shi emphasized that the literary revolution was a deliberate effort to elevate popular novels to their rightful place in Chinese literary history, indicating a significant shift in societal values [3][4] - The interaction between societal changes and the development of thought is crucial for understanding the literary revolution and the New Culture Movement [2][3] Group 2 - The collaboration between Hu Shi and Chen Duxiu was pivotal for the rapid success of the literary revolution, with their differing approaches complementing each other [4][5] - Hu Shi's initial expectation was that the vernacular movement would take 25 to 30 years to succeed, while Chen Duxiu's assertive stance helped garner significant attention for the movement [4][5] - The disconnect between Western-educated students and domestic intellectual discourse highlighted the need for better communication and engagement with the broader society [5][6] Group 3 - The literary revolution aimed to raise the status of popular literature, thereby enhancing the role of the reading public, particularly marginalized readers [3][4] - The movement provided a pathway for marginalized readers to become more engaged and active participants in the literary landscape [3][4] - The relationship between the proponents of the literary revolution and the general public reflects a broader trend of challenging traditional hierarchies in society [3][4] Group 4 - The misunderstanding of the literary revolution's success is evident in the limited readership of vernacular literature, which primarily attracted a specific segment of the population rather than the general public [25][26] - The actual readers of new literary works were often young, marginal intellectuals who aspired to ascend to elite status, rather than the broader populace [26][30] - The literary revolution's impact was more pronounced among intellectuals and aspiring elites, indicating a disconnect with the general public [32][34]