A Study of Chinese Characters

This book explores the development of Chinese characters and the tradition of Chinese palaeography, with 23 chapters focusing on the evolution of Chinese characters and the Shuowen Jiezi, one of the oldest character dictionaries in China. It will appeal to students and scholars of Sinology, Chinese philology, and palaeography.

Format: Hardback
Length: 314 pages
Publication date: 22 December 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This groundbreaking two-volume set, comprising the first installment, presents a comprehensive exploration of Chinese ancient characters and newly discovered literature. As the inaugural volume, it brings together a collection of insightful research articles authored by the esteemed authors, delving into the intricate development of Chinese characters and the rich tradition of Chinese palaeography. Spanning a total of 23 chapters, this book offers a dual focus on two crucial aspects of Chinese characters. The first 13 chapters delve into the fascinating evolution of Chinese characters, providing a detailed analysis of the composition system and its transformative journey. These chapters explore the motivations behind character evolution, examine the mechanisms that shaped its development, and introduce innovative methodologies for studying ancient characters. The subsequent 10 chapters revolve around the renowned Shuowen Jiezi, one of the oldest character dictionaries in China. The author presents a fresh and innovative perspective on the core issues surrounding this seminal philological work, including the various versions of the dictionary, misconceptions in previous scholarship, and its intricate connections with other palaeographical materials.

The title of this remarkable work is sure to captivate students and scholars alike, with its appeal extending to those interested in Sinology, Chinese philology, palaeography, and Chinese characters. It serves as a vital resource for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the rich linguistic and cultural heritage of China.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032607276