University of California Press Lu Hsun's Vision of Reality

Lu Hsün’s Vision of Reality delves into the revolutionary shifts in modern Chinese fiction during the early 20th century, spotlighting Lu Hsün (pen name of Chou Shu-jen) as a pioneering figure in the short story genre. His seminal collections, Call to Arms (1923) and Wandering (1926), are celebrated as enduring classics, encapsulating the socio-political upheavals of the time. The book contextualizes Lu Hsün’s works within the rich cultural and historical backdrop of his hometown, Shaohsing, a city renowned for its clever inhabitants and steeped in memories of rebellion and resilience. Through vivid depictions of Shaohsing’s traditions, landscapes, and the remnants of the Taiping Rebellion, the study connects Lu Hsün’s literary vision to his roots, offering readers insights into the shaping of his critical perspective on Chinese society. This comprehensive introduction serves both seasoned scholars and new readers, balancing an accessible narrative with in-depth analysis of Lu Hsün’s stories and their broader implications. It combines personal history, cultural critique, and literary examination, illustrating how Lu Hsün’s upbringing in a storied yet turbulent environment influenced his masterful storytelling and unflinching critique of Chinese tradition. Through translations, detailed descriptions, and scholarly commentary, the book invites readers to appreciate the depth of Lu Hsün’s contributions to modern Chinese literature and the universal themes embedded in his tales of human struggle and societal change. This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press’s mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1976.