Core Viewpoint - The article commemorates the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, highlighting the sacrifices made by ancestors for the current peace and prosperity [2]. Group 1 - Zhang Xiang expresses deep emotions at the commemoration event, reflecting on his grandfather Zhang Junfeng's contributions during the war [2]. - Zhang Junfeng, born in 1913, joined the Communist Party in 1935 and led a drama troupe to inspire and mobilize the public through performances during the war [2]. - Despite passing away before the victory, Zhang Junfeng's legacy is honored by his descendants through dedication to their work and service to the country [2]. Group 2 - On September 16, Zhang Xiang engages with new soldiers at Zhengzhou Railway Station, encouraging them to integrate personal aspirations with national defense efforts [2]. - He emphasizes the importance of cherishing the opportunity to serve in the military and honoring the sacrifices of the martyrs through action [2].

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].

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the significant role of theater and art in uniting the Chinese people during the Anti-Japanese War, showcasing how various performances inspired collective action and national consciousness [5][8][12]. Group 1: Historical Context - The Anti-Japanese War prompted a surge in theatrical productions, with street plays and operas becoming vital tools for mobilizing public sentiment against invaders [6][7]. - Notable works like "The White-Haired Girl" and "Defending Lugou Bridge" resonated deeply with audiences, reflecting the struggles and aspirations of the people during wartime [6][9]. Group 2: The Role of Art and Theater - Theater served as a battlefield, with performances acting as weapons to inspire and galvanize the masses, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose [13][14]. - The creative output from institutions like the Lu Xun Academy of Arts (鲁艺) was characterized by a focus on real-life experiences, capturing the essence of the people's struggles and triumphs [11][12]. Group 3: Impact on Society - The emotional connection established through performances led to increased participation in the war effort, with audiences feeling compelled to act in solidarity with the characters portrayed on stage [13][14]. - The portrayal of ordinary individuals as heroes in plays helped to elevate the collective spirit, encouraging a sense of agency among the populace [12][15]. Group 4: Legacy and Reflection - The legacy of wartime theater continues to resonate, with modern adaptations and performances honoring the spirit of resistance and the sacrifices made during the Anti-Japanese War [16][18]. - The article underscores the importance of remembering and celebrating these artistic contributions as a means of preserving national identity and collective memory [16][19].

Group 1 - The rise of the anti-Japanese cultural movement led to the emergence of numerous outstanding artistic works, with "Put Down Your Whip" being a notable street play that inspired the public's enthusiasm for resisting the enemy and saving the nation [9] - The photograph series "Liu Hanxing Joins the Army" is a classic in Chinese anti-Japanese photography, depicting Liu Hanxing, who joined the army at a young age and later returned to agricultural production after being injured in battle [13] - Women’s self-defense teams were established in the anti-Japanese base areas behind enemy lines, showcasing the involvement of women in the war effort [20] Group 2 - The Eighth Route Army's 115th Division successfully ambushed Japanese troops at Pingxingguan, demonstrating the bravery and tactical skills of Chinese forces [24] - The New Fourth Army launched counterattacks against Japanese and puppet troops, highlighting the ongoing resistance efforts [26] - The outbreak of the Battle of Shanghai on August 13, 1937, marked a significant moment in the war, with Chinese troops actively engaging Japanese forces [28] Group 3 - The Chinese Expeditionary Force, consisting of over 100,000 troops, was sent to Burma to support Allied strategic defenses following the outbreak of the Pacific War [30] - The story of Malaysian Chinese expatriate Bai Xuejiao, who returned to China to join the anti-Japanese efforts, illustrates the strong ties and commitment of overseas Chinese to the homeland [32] - The establishment of the Macau Four-Region Disaster Relief Association Service Team in 1938, which sent multiple teams to the mainland for anti-Japanese activities, reflects the collective efforts of overseas Chinese communities [34]

Core Viewpoint - The development of the Chinese-language theater movement in Malaya during the Anti-Japanese War served as a significant support mechanism for the war effort, leaving a lasting impact on the evolution of Chinese-language drama and literature in Malaysia [3][4]. Group 1: Historical Context and Development - The Chinese-language theater movement in Malaya emerged in tandem with modern Chinese history and the development of Chinese theater, gaining momentum particularly after the September 18 Incident in 1931 and the July 7 Incident in 1937 [5]. - By the late 1930s, the Wuhan Choir toured Malaya, performing over 130 shows and raising more than 10 million yuan in support of the anti-Japanese cause, highlighting the popularity and impact of theatrical performances among the Chinese community [4][5]. - The movement saw the establishment of over 2,000 theater groups across Malaya, with performances reaching grassroots levels, indicating a widespread engagement with the art form [5]. Group 2: Role in Anti-Japanese Efforts - The theater movement played a crucial role in mobilizing the Chinese community in Malaya to support the anti-Japanese war, as many individuals found theater to be a more accessible medium for understanding current events compared to newspapers [7][8]. - The performances not only raised funds for the war effort but also served to awaken the consciousness of the Chinese community regarding the ongoing conflict, with many individuals participating in the war effort as a result of the movement's influence [8][9]. Group 3: Long-term Impact on Malaysian Chinese Theater - The legacy of the Malayan Chinese theater movement is evident in the establishment of Chinese theater troupes by British colonial authorities post-World War II, reflecting the popularity of the art form [9]. - The movement contributed to the development of a new generation of theater practitioners and theorists, significantly influencing the trajectory of Chinese-language theater and literature in Malaysia for decades to come [11][13].

Group 1 - The article discusses the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, highlighting various cultural and artistic activities planned for this occasion [1][4][6] - A series of performances and exhibitions will take place from August to October, including a major gala on September 3 in Beijing, featuring prominent artists and a focus on affordable tickets to ensure public access [4][5] - The theme exhibition at the Chinese People's Anti-Japanese War Memorial Hall will showcase 1.22 million square meters of space, displaying 1,525 photographs and 3,237 cultural relics, emphasizing the historical significance of the war and the role of the Communist Party of China [6][7] Group 2 - The article outlines a nationwide media campaign titled "Mountains and Rivers Witness - Our Anti-Japanese Memory," which will involve live broadcasts from significant historical sites related to the war, aiming to foster a sense of historical remembrance and national pride [5][8] - Various artistic works, including documentaries and short dramas, will be produced and broadcasted, with a focus on both grand narratives and personal stories from the war, appealing to a diverse audience [8][9] - The article mentions the inclusion of classic artworks and new creations in exhibitions, with over 300 pieces of art planned for display, showcasing the contributions of artists to the commemoration [7][8]