Core Viewpoint - Anti-war literature in China serves as a profound spiritual epic, reflecting the resilience and spirit of the Chinese nation during the 14 years of the War of Resistance against Japan, starting from the September 18 Incident [5][6][10]. Group 1: Historical Context and Significance - The War of Resistance against Japan not only forged the will and spirit of the Chinese people but also gave rise to a unique genre of literature that bears historical significance [5][6]. - Anti-war literature is characterized as a strategic cultural counteroffensive led by the Chinese Communist Party, highlighting the role of writers in documenting the struggles and sacrifices during the war [6][10]. Group 2: Themes in Anti-war Literature - The literature addresses the questioning and exploration of national fate, exemplified by works like Lao She's "Four Generations Under One Roof," which symbolizes the collapse of traditional society under the violence of war [7]. - It also captures the suffering of the nation, with contrasting depictions in works like Xiao Jun's "August Village" and Xiao Hong's "The Field of Death," showcasing the impact of war on individual lives and society [7][8]. Group 3: Literary Techniques and Impact - The literature employs stark realism to critique the violence of war, as seen in A Lang's "Nanjing Blood Sacrifice," which serves as a powerful indictment of the atrocities committed during the Nanjing Massacre [8]. - Anti-war literature has played a crucial role in awakening national consciousness, embedding the idea of collective responsibility in the hearts of the people [10][11]. Group 4: Cultural Mobilization - The literature became a tool for mobilizing the masses, with works like Zhao Shuli's "Little Erhei Gets Married" making revolutionary narratives accessible to the rural population [12]. - The imagery of the red flag evolved from a concrete symbol to an emblem of the anti-war spirit, as illustrated in works like Zhou Libo's "Stormy Rain" [12]. Group 5: Performance and Community Engagement - Street plays and wall poetry during the war created a unique literary landscape, engaging audiences in a participatory manner that blurred the lines between performers and spectators [13]. - The collective experience of performances, such as the street play "Put Down Your Whip," fostered a sense of unity and urgency in the fight against Japanese imperialism [13][14]. Group 6: Legacy and Cultural Memory - The enduring impact of anti-war literature is evident in its ability to resonate across generations, as seen in the communal experiences during the re-screening of films like "Tunnel Warfare" [14]. - These literary works not only represent artistic achievements but also serve as a cultural self-rescue plan for the Chinese nation during a time of existential crisis [14].

Group 1 - The importance of theater during the Anti-Japanese War is emphasized as a means of inspiration, weapon, and comfort for the people [1] - The production of classic plays like "The Butcher" aims to reveal the cruelty of war and honor the sacrifices of ancestors by conveying the message of peace [1] - The portrayal of female heroes in wartime dramas highlights their strength and resilience, showcasing their contributions to the war effort [2] Group 2 - The creation of the acrobatic drama "First Voice" serves to remind audiences of the historical significance of resistance against invaders, emphasizing the dedication of performers during rehearsals [3] - The international version of "Memory in Depth" aims to shed light on the Nanjing Massacre, focusing on various perspectives to reveal historical truths [4] - The commitment to preserving the spirit of individuals like Zhang Chunru reflects the ongoing effort to honor those who stood for justice and truth during tragic historical events [4]

Core Viewpoint - The novel "The Heroes of Lüliang" serves as a significant representation of the Chinese revolutionary literature, showcasing the grassroots perspective of farmers during the anti-Japanese war and highlighting their awakening and collective heroism [1][4][6]. Group 1: Creation and Publication - "The Heroes of Lüliang" was created by Ma Feng and Xi Rong, inspired by real-life militia heroes during a conference in the Jin-Sui border area in 1945 [2]. - The novel began serialization on June 5, 1945, in the "Jin-Sui Dazhong Bao" and was completed by August 20, 1946, with a total of 95 installments [2]. - The book was later condensed to 80 chapters and published in October 1949 by Beijing Xinhua Bookstore, becoming part of the "Chinese People's Literature Series" [2]. Group 2: Artistic and Narrative Techniques - The novel employs a unique narrative style that reflects the grassroots storytelling, using authentic dialects and colloquial expressions from the Jin-Western region [4]. - It utilizes a traditional storytelling technique known as "linked narrative," which engages readers with cliffhangers at the end of chapters, making it relatable to the audience [4]. - The work innovates with a "collective narrative" approach, presenting a group of heroes rather than a single protagonist, thus embodying the spirit of mass resistance [5]. Group 3: Historical and Cultural Significance - "The Heroes of Lüliang" authentically depicts the vast landscape of people's war, illustrating real historical events such as the militia's strategies against Japanese forces [6]. - The novel captures the transformation of ordinary farmers into revolutionary figures, reflecting the awakening of their consciousness and collective action against oppression [7]. - It stands as the first modern Chinese novel to portray the nationwide anti-Japanese struggle, establishing a cultural monument that resonates with the spirit of resistance among the Chinese people [7].