20221231 LangCult 7

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The Contemporary Influence of Three Kingdoms Culture

夏盼 Xia Pan，202270081661

Abstract

This chapter mainly discusses the the modern and contemporary influence of three kingdoms culture. The author try to help readers to realize the importance of three kingdoms culture by citing its influence in fields of society, economy and literature and education. On the basis of summarizing the predecessors, the author of this article puts forward his own new insights and views on the future development of the Three Kingdoms culture.

Key Words

Three Kingdoms Culture, Economic Influence, Literature

Introduction

Records of the Three Kingdoms is one of the four major historical books, and the Romance of the Three Kingdoms is the most popular ancient masterpiece, and the decisive role behind these two books is the Three Kingdoms culture, which has a great impact on our society's economy, education, culture and other aspects. It has far-reaching significance, but there are few articles discussing its impact on today's society in detail. The author will talk about the social influence, economic influence and educational influence of the Three Kingdoms culture, and give some suggestions on the future development of the Three Kingdoms culture.

As we all know, the Three Kingdoms is one of the four famous masterpieces that are widely known in our country. It has had a significant and far-reaching impact on both our folk and the government. For example, Huang Taiji, the ruler of the early Qing Dynasty, was familiar with the Romance of Three Kingdoms and used it to win wars and achieved major achievements. The problem is that today, few of us discuss the culture of the Three Kingdoms . This is a major neglect and a huge waste of our precious wealth. Some people think that culture is illusory and useless, but the fact is just the opposite. The influence of culture is profound. Today, the influence of the cultural connotations of the Three Kingdoms has expanded from politics, military affairs, and diplomacy to management, business, and other fields, and has spread from China to the world. Then the question comes to the next step, how should we discover the influence of the Three Kingdoms culture, and how to better inherit and develop the Three Kingdoms culture. In order to explore these issues, the author will start from three aspects to analyze them one by one, trying to present the modern and contemporary significance of the Three Kingdoms Culture to readers.

The Social Significance

Today, the social influence of the Three Kingdoms culture can be seen everywhere. From a social perspective, the influence of the culture of the Three Kingdoms can be said to be ubiquitous. For example, in the Emperor Han, Liu Bei get the young king entrusted in Baidi city. And for another example, Guan luo said：“ Loyalty ,Benevolence ,Filialness and Justice is the foundation of human beings. ” [1] Later, the Chinese nation, under its influence, praised the loyalty culture. Cao Cao ,who was a king in in the Three Kingdoms, used people based on talent rather than family background and wealth. [2] In addition, Cao Cao paid attention to the expertise of all kinds of talents. He inspected and appointed talents in various ways. [3]. Cao Cao's behavior has greatly promoted the formation of the current civil service selection system in China and even in the world. Westerners say that there are a thousand Hamlets in the eyes of a thousand people, this sentence is exactly the same in the Three Kingdoms culture, people with different occupations and status in society can often learn from it differently, thus promoting the development and transformation of this society. Great politicians, such as Comrade Mao Zedong, learned from Cao Cao's emphasis on the army and logistics supplies in unifying the north, and put forward these ideas that “Power grows out of the barrel of a gun”, and “We must pay attention to the construction of production bases”. From the perspective of the middle and lower classes of society, the culture of the Three Kingdoms also has a profound influence on them. Contemporary industry gatherings such as the Small Knife Club in Shanghai, the Triad Club in Hong Kong, and many overseas Chinese gatherings in the Philippines, etc., they all highly respect Guan Yu(a main character in the Three Kingdoms culture). When encountering major events, they usually burn incense and pray for the blessing of Guan Yu.

The Economic Significance

In contemporary times, the economic influence of the culture of the Three Kingdoms is tremendous. Economic benefits are easier to quantify than social benefits. How common is the economic power of the Three Kingdoms culture in our country? For example, Yi Zhongtian’s speech about the Tree Kingdoms and some historical novels about the Three Kingdoms, but in fact the economic benefits of the Three Kingdoms culture are far more than in this way. For example, Japan’s Koei Company once developed Romance of the Three Kingdoms into a game. Only the 14th game of Romance of the Three Kingdoms has brought it hundreds of millions of yen in revenue. In addition, there are many peripheral products of the Three Kingdoms culture, such as pillows, handmade clothing, etc. Behind the Three Kingdoms culture is a huge gold mine like Himalayan, and the economic benefits are extremely huge. In addition, the tourism industry, in such as Wuhou Temple in Sichuan, Guandi Temple and Tongque Terrace in Hebei, is extremely developed due to the influence of the Three Kingdoms. Tourism of the three kingdoms promotes social prosperity and economic development. [4]

The Educational Significance

Today, the educational significance of the Three Kingdoms culture is very rich. Obviously, the Three Kingdoms is a feast of military affairs, but it is also a big stage for the confrontation of wits and wits. It is the most competitive era in the ages, where many romantic figures emerge and many writers perform the eternal swan song here. Just from the point of view of literature, there are Three Cao literature represented by Cao Cao, Cao Zhi and Cao Pi, which are vigorous and powerful, concerned about people's livelihood, and care about the national future. There are also generous elegiac songs written by the Seven Poets of Jian'an period, which are broad-minded and open, and do not seek fame and wealth. For example, Xu Gan's the Mean Reasoning is regarded as an immortal work. [5]. Scholars can not only absorb literary nutrition from the culture of the Three Kingdoms, but also appreciate a philosophy of life. For example, what Liu Bei said: Don’t do evil things as it is small, and don’t neglect good things as it is small. Zhu geliang said “To be close to virtuous courtiers and alien to knavish ones was what made the dynasty strong and prosperous”. Historical Background:

Conclusion

The culture of the Three Kingdoms has a long history,is extensive and profound, and has a profound effect on various fields of our society. We should inherit and carry forward the culture of the Three Kingdoms and innovate the carrier of the Three Kingdoms culture, so as to better innovate Chinese culture and enrich world culture.

References

[1]（晋）陈寿，三国志【M】北京中华书局，（1982，812）.

[2] Liu, W. H. . (2004，108). On the conception loyalty in the history of three kingdoms. Journal of Sichuan Teachers College (Social Science).

[3] Wei, H. . (2012，45). Inspiration that cao cao humanism management thoughts to modern enterprise. Journal of the Party School of C.P.C Guilin Municipal Committee.

[4] Wei, H. . (2012，45). Inspiration that cao cao humanism management thoughts to modern enterprise. Journal of the Party School of C.P.C Guilin Municipal Committee.

[5]古川末喜. (1990,17). 建安三国文学思想的新探讨. 中国文学研究(2), 8.

[6] Chun-Jiao, L. I. . (2016，40). The records of the three kingdoms:the source of all cultures after three kingdoms age. Journal of China West Normal University(Philosophy & Social Sciences).

Terms and Expressions

The Romance of the Three Kingdoms三国演义

Zhu geliang诸葛亮

Caocao曹操

Liubei刘备

Guan Yu关羽

Three Cao literature三曹文学

Seven Poets of Jian'an period建安七子

To be close to virtuous courtiers and alien to knavish ones was what made the dynasty strong and prosperous亲贤臣远小人此（先汉）之所以兴隆

Don’t do evil things as it is small, and don’t neglect good things as it is small.勿以而小而为之，勿以善小而不为

Questions

1.Who came up with “To be close to virtuous courtiers and alien to knavish ones was what made the dynasty strong and prosperous”? A Cao Cao

B Liu Bei

C Liu Biao

D Zhuge Liang

2.Don’t do evil things as it is small, and don’t neglect good things as it is small. Was this sentence proposed by Liu Bei?

A.True

B. False

3.(多选)Who can represent Three Cao Literature of the Three Kingdoms Period?

A Cao Cao

B Cao Pi

C Cao Zhi

D Cao Zhang

4.The Emperor Han, Liu Bei get the young king entrusted in Baidi city, False or True?

A. True

B. False

Answers

1.D

2.A

3.A,B,C

4.A

202270081699 夏依颐 Xia Yiyi 英语口译(English interpretation)

The Changes in Women's Clothing in China Since 1840

夏依颐 Xia Yiyi，202270081699

Abstract

This chapter mainly discusses the changes in women’s clothing in China since 1840. In each part, the reasons behind every change and its significance are elucidated. It draws a conclusion that what women wear in different stages in Chinese history is closely related to the economic, political and social realities at that time. Through the changes in women’s clothing, the story of China’s rising as a great country is unfolding.

Key Words

Changes, women’s clothing, 1840

Introduction

One’s dress style cannot form without the impact of social environments. To discuss the changes in women’s clothing in China since 1840, this chapter will be divided into four parts, namely the first stage (1840-1911), the second stage (1911-1949), the third stage (1949-1978) and the fourth stage (1978-now).

The first stage (1840-1911)

Historical Background:

Since 1840, China has been invaded by imperialists and was forced to sign unequal treaties. The economy, military forces, and culture were manipulated. Although the foundations of the self-sufficient natural economy were destroyed, the system of feudal exploitation still remained intact and combined with the exploitation of comprador and usurer capital. Chinese women won emancipation after hardships.(Mangan J A,2001) The first step was the anti-footbinding movement for which Chinese women paid a very heavy price. (Chen, 2014) However, they gradually contributed their unique power to historical development. Equality between men and women began to emerge. (Chen Si, 2008, 380)

Women’s Clothing:

In 1859, many Chinese girls began to wear European-styled shoes and Manchester headscarves. Shanghai was the most influenced city at that time. People who had contact with western traders began to westernize their clothing. Many people began to make purses on their clothes to carry belongings, and many fashionable women began to imitate foreign dress styles. As the first city to open its ports, Shanghai became a metropolis where Chinese and foreigners met and the birthplace of Huayang clothing (Chinese and foreign clothing) in China.

The second stage (1911-1949)

Historical Background:

The Revolution of 1911 succeeded, and revolutionaries began to cut off their braids. Long pigtails, a symbol of backwardness, were finally eradicated. And the feudal robes as well as the Manchu-style shoes, hats and clothing were discarded. In addition, Yuan Shikai seized the fruits of the victory of the Revolution to restore the imperial system, so the clothing style revealing restoration became increasingly prevalent. Therefore, new clothes with political implications would be in line with China’s national conditions and characteristics. Chinese tunic suits emerged. (Chen Si, 2008, 380)

Women’s Clothing:

Women’s clothing in this period changed a lot. They wore wavy hairstyles and thick underwear to create a sexy image. Most schoolgirls wore semi-sleeve shirts and black silk skirts, and blue-cloth long gown was the leading dress style among them. Daily clothes for grown-up women were still cheongsam. Shanghai became the base of Chinese women’s fashion. As European fashions influenced women in terms of short skirts, underwear and colors, more and more people followed them. Sports lovers started to fancy red pleated skirts with silver trim, and brassieres rather than traditional bellybands.

The third stage (1949-1978)

Historical Background:

The restoration of the national economy and democratic reforms were basically completed in 1952. In spite of the headwind, the achievements in building socialism are, on the whole, glorious. From 1949 to 1978, an independent industrial and national economic system was established at a speed unmatched by the developed countries. In the 1950s, China witnessed a great advance in productivity and people’s livelihood. Women were increasingly involved in labor and political activities. Their social status improved significantly. While the single color of clothing can indicate that women were no longer in the subordinate position of pleasing men. (Qin Jie, 2012, 184)

Women’s Clothing:

At the beginning of the founding of New China, there was still a shortage of various materials. People had to buy food and fabric with tickets. Beautiful and comfortable clothes were a luxury at that time. Therefore, women’s clothes were monotonous and dull. China advocated manufacturing novel, labor- and material-saving clothes in line with the principles of economy and practicality. From the mid-1960s to the late 1970s, the Cultural Revolution impaired the newly gained confidence of Chinese people in the new dressing culture, and people were unified in the same dress pattern.

The fourth stage (1978-now)

Historical Background:

In the late 1980s, with reform and opening up forging ahead, people were once again liberated and society was more inclusive. China’s national culture showed a high degree of “inclusiveness”, indicating a big step towards internationalization.(Amelung Iwo, Haipeng Zhang / Zhai Jinyi, 2021) Updated ideas, prosperous culture and economy offered favorable conditions for clothing diversity. Women in the 21st century play a pivotal role in politics, the economy and other aspects. They have great achievements in areas that men could never have imagined. Women have their own unique views on fashion. Their social status has reached an unprecedented level in human history. (Qin Jie, 2013, 76)

Women’s Clothing:

Instead of suits, we choose sportswear; instead of flared trousers, we favor jeans; instead of high heels, we prefer sports shoe brands like Nike and Adidas. In the new era, women are fortunate enough to be able to wear novel and colorful clothes, showing their personalities to the fullest. Women’s standards of beauty are beginning to change. Fashion is gradually transforming and presenting itself everywhere. Chinese women can get to know Parisian fashion news simultaneously. Instead of copying them blindly, they have learned how to borrow the elements.

Conclusion

Since 1840, western-styled clothing started to enter the country. After the 20th century, with the spread of new ideas, and the change in the political system and social customs, women’s clothing began to focus on visual beauty showing the elegance of female bodies. With the deepening of democracy, freedom and equality, clothing with western elements was also more widely spread. The change in women’s clothing not only showed us the special course of women’s emancipation, but also China’s modern history.

References

[1] 程思.从中国服装演变看女性地位[J].安徽文学(下半月),2008(02):380-382.

[2]秦杰.女性地位较低时期的女装艺术风格表现[J].现代装饰(理论),2012(11):184-185.

[3] 秦杰.浅谈影响女性服装艺术风格的社会因素[J].美术教育研究,2013(03):76-77.

[4] Amelung Iwo. Haipeng Zhang / Zhai Jinyi, A Brief Modern Chinese History. Stuttgart, Ibidem 2021[J]. Historische Zeitschrift,2022,314(3).

[5] Chen. The contested body: the anti-footbinding movement in modern China[J]. Journal of Modern Chinese History,2014,8(2).

[6] Mangan J A. Prospects for the new millennium: women, emancipation and the body.[J]. The International journal of the history of sport,2001,18(1).

Terms and Expressions

comprador and usurer capital 买办和高利贷资本

anti-footbinding movement 不缠足运动

Huayang clothing 华洋服装

the Revolution of 1911 辛亥革命

Chinese tunic suit 中山装

Cheongsam 旗袍

Brassiere 胸罩

Bellyband 肚兜

Semi-sleeve shirts and black silk skirts 中袖短衫与黑色绸裙

Red pleated skirts with silver trim 红色镶银边的百褶裙

the Cultural Revolution 文化大革命

flared trousers 喇叭裤

Questions

1.In which event did women pay a heavy price for their emancipation during 1840-1911?

A.The Cultural Revolution

B.Anti smoking campaign

C.Anti-footbinding movement

D.The Revolution of 1911

2.Which city was the birthplace of Huayang Clothing?

A.Guangzhou

B.Beijing

C.Shanghai

D.Hong Kong

3.（多选）What are the main women’s clothing during 1911-1949?

A.Semi-sleeve shirts and black silk skirts

B.Blue-cloth long gown and Cheongsam

C.Flared trousers

D.Red pleated skirts with silver trim

4.（多选）What else can we know through the transformation in women’s clothing?

A.The special course of women’s emancipation

B.The spread of new ideas

C.The change in the political system and social customs

Answers

1.C

2.C

3.A,B,D

4.A,B,C

202270081662 夏紫纯 Xia Zichun 英语笔译(English translation)

The Application of the New Four Inventions,which are imported from the US to China, and its Role in the Global Dissemination of Chinese Culture

夏紫纯Xia Zichun，202270081662

Abstract

This chapter mainly talks about the development of the New Four Inventions boosted by, their significance and powerful dissemination to the rest of the world. It draws a conclusion that China is overcoming its shortcomings, desperately trying to improve its technological level and achieving major breakthroughs in some important areas.

Key Words

The New Four Inventions, significance, the Global Dissemination of Chinese Culture

Introduction

The “Four New Inventions” originated from an internet buzzword born in 2017. (Baidubaike, the “Four New Invention”)In 2018, the Silk Road Institute of Beijing Foreign Studies University launched a survey of international students, in which young people from 20 countries along “the Belt and Road” were asked to pick up “four new Chinese inventions” in their heart. These are their answers: High-speed railways, code payment, bicycle sharing and online shopping. In fact, these four were not invented by China, but were simply misrepresented as being more advanced in their promotion and application in China and more influential abroad.(Chen Fang, Yu Xiaojie, Lu Yongjian, 2017(18):63-65)

High-speed railways

On October 1, 1964, Japan’s Tokaido Shinkansen was officially opened to traffic, and it operated at speeds of up to 210 kilometers per hour. Since then, the world’s first truly high-speed railway was invented by Japan, which marked the arrival of a new era of high-speed railway in the world. As a pioneer of high-speed railways in the world, Japan has accumulated a wealth of experience for China and other countries in the world that have developed high-speed railways, and has transferred some of its technology to these countries for a fee. In March 2006, a train left the Japanese port of Kobe for Qingdao, China, and some of the technology was transferred to China, thus opening up the era of high-speed railways in China.

Payment by code

The code payment model is built on the concept of mobile payments. The first payments made by mobile devices appeared in Finland in 1997. Local media in Finland reported that Finnair Telecom launched a service to operate jukeboxes and beverage vending machines by calling a pay phone number to buy Coca-Cola at Helsinki Airport. The QR code (also known as ‘Quick Response Code’) was invented by the Japanese company DW in 1994.

Bicycle sharing

In 1965, the Dutch municipality of Amsterdam introduced the “White Plan”. In 2007, bicycle sharing was also introduced in France, but only later did the Chinese model become popular and innovative and spread overseas.

Online shopping

The concept of online shopping was invented in 1979 by the Englishman Michael Aldrich. Aldrich used a technology called Videotex to connect ordinary television sets to the computers of local retailers via telephone lines. eCommerce then became popular worldwide after Amazon and eBay launched their own websites in 1995.

The Importance of the New Four Inventions

The high-speed train, the fastest train in China today, is one of the preferred means of travel. High-speed trains can also drive the economic development of cities and promote scientific research and innovation. Alipay is a new generation of wireless payment solutions built primarily on an account system. The emergence of Alipay has greatly reduced the circulation of counterfeit money. In addition, bicycle sharing, also known as public bicycle, is a time-sharing model and a new green sharing economy model. Last but not least, online shopping is also, in a way, a great way to protect one’s privacy, making it the most popular way to shop today.(大社会，2017年（10）：70-71）

The Four Great Inventions in the Global Dissemination of Chinese Culture

In fact, the “low-quality” label that was once attached to Chinese manufacturing has been torn off thanks to high-speed railways. China’s tailor-made electric locomotives for Serbia will run on the busiest freight lines in the Balkan region; China has also received a number of orders for subways from Boston and Los Angeles in the USA. China’s high-speed railways have become a popular product for foreign economic and technical cooperation. The “China Speed” of high-speed rail is also a reflection of the speed at which people’s happiness is increasing. (大社会，2017年（10）：70-71）

Although online shopping is not the first of its kind in China, the convenience and speed of development of online shopping in China has surpassed that of some developed countries. When you go out or go abroad, you can simply take your mobile phone with you and you can get your food, clothing, shelter and transport all in one place via the internet. There are large and dazzling platforms such as Alibaba, JD.COM and Suning E-shop, as well as various smaller platforms. They are part of China’s online shopping systems and online shopping has also contributed to the world online shopping development. (大社会，2017年（10）：70-71）

As the first country in the world to invent and use paper money, China is leading the global payment system into a new era. Alipay has been introduced in Paris Spring in France, Harrods in the UK, Finnair, Norwegian Cruises, South African sightseeing buses, and even the Arctic Circle. From airport duty-free shops in Europe to drugstores in Japan, Alipay has been used by more than 100,000 offline merchants in 26 countries and regions. WeChat Pay is also present in 130,000 overseas merchants in 13 overseas regions. The Financial Times, comparing data from market researchers in China and the US, found that China’s mobile payments market was nearly 50 times larger than that of the US in 2016. (大社会，2017年（10）：70-71）

Last but not least, bike-sharing has reached further corners of the world. Chinese bike-sharing bikes are on the streets of hundreds of cities around the world, including the US, Germany, the UK, Italy and Japan. The small yellow bicycle has entered 16 countries around the world since the start of its globalization strategy. Mobike is also operating in 13 overseas cities, including Washington, London, Manchester and Salford. The bike-sharing enterprise is not only an important business card representing the new height of Chinese intellectual manufacturing and showing the level of Chinese innovation, but also an important manifestation of China’s innovation pattern and momentum. (大社会，2017年（10）：70-71）

Conclusion

These “New Four Inventions” have not only enabled the world to witness the amazing changes in China as a result of reforms in the field of science and technology, but have also enabled China to return to the center of the world stage in the new round of technological revolution. The “Four New Inventions” have changed China and influenced the world. The Chinese people are endlessly creative and it is foreseeable that China will continue to create more inventions that will amaze the world.（新四大发明改变人们的生活方式，作文独唱团，2019（08）:72）

References

[1]陈芳,余晓洁,鹿永建.高铁、网购、支付宝、共享单车成中国“新四大发明”——标注中国 启示世界[J].重庆与世界,2017(18):63-65.

[2] “新四大发明”改变人们生活方式[J].课堂内外(作文独唱团),2019(08):72.

[3] “新四大发明”讲述中国奇迹[J].大社会,2017(10):70-71.

[4]Ziatyna Hanna（汉娜）. 新四大发明在中国国家形象建构中的作用[D].黑龙江大学,2019.DOI:10.27123/d.cnki.ghlju.2019.001003.

[5]张姝. 新媒体时代下的四大发明[D].大连工业大学,2014.

[6]中国将引领“新四大发明”走向全球[J].时代金融,2017(28):60-61.

[7]新四大发明，百度百科，网址：https://baike.baidu.com/item/%E6%96%B0%E5%9B%9B%E5%A4%A7%E5%8F%91%E6%98%8E/1549722

[8]Robotics & Machine Learning[J] 2019.

[9]Sustainable Cities and SocietyVolume [J] 86, 2022.

Terms and Expressions

Alibaba阿里巴巴

JD.COM京东商城

Suning E-shop苏宁易购

Japan’s Tokaido Shinkansen 日本东海岛新干线

Paris Spring in France法国巴黎春天

Harrods in the UK英国哈罗德百货

Finnair芬兰航空

Norwegian Cruises挪威邮轮

South African sightseeing buses南非观光巴士

Mobike摩拜单车

Questions

1. What are the "Four New Inventions" of modern China?

A. High-speed rail

B. online shopping

C. Alipay and bicycle sharing

2. Which country invented the world's first truly high-speed railway?

A. Japan

B. China

C. America

3. Which country originally invented bicycle sharing?

A. China

B. Germany

C. The Netherlands

Answers

Correct answers are:

1. ABC

2. A

3. C

202270081663 向明慧 Xiang Minghui 英语笔译(English translation)

Modern Applications of Traditional Chinese Medicine:Disease Prevention and Control, Aromatherapy, Regimen and Cosmetology

向明慧 Xiang Minghui，202270081663

Abstract

This chapter contains characteristics and modern applications of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Theories of TCM are applied in disease prevention and control, aromatherapy, regimen and cosmetology. Chinese herbal medicine and some ancient prescriptions can be used in innovation of modern medicine, beauties and health-care products. Beside, the concept of health preservation in TCM is in line with modern people’s pursuit of healthy life.

Key Words

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM),modern applications, disease prevention and control, aromatherapy, regimen, cosmetology

Introduction

TCM could be traced back to a Chinese mythology that Shennong tasted hundred herbs for medical. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine in China rolled out by the State Council Information Office of the PRC, TCM has five characteristics (1) Holistic view. TCM deems that the relationship between humans and nature is an interactive and inseparable whole. (2) Emphasis on harmony. TCM holds that a person's physical health depends on harmony in the functions of body organs, good mental state, and adaption to different environments. (3) Personalized therapy. TCM treats a disease based on full consideration of the individual constitution and climatic and seasonal conditions. (4) Preventative treatment as a core. TCM advocates that a person's health can be improved through emotional adjustment, balanced labor and rest, a sensible diet, and a regular life. (5) Simplicity. In addition to medication, TCM has many non-pharmacological alternative approaches such as acupuncture, moxibustion, cupping and gua sha. There is no need for complex equipment.

Though the fundamental notions and theories of TCM are very old they could be used to make new products which meet the requirements of contemporary people.

Modern Applications of TCM

a.Infectious disease prevention and control

Tu Youyou and her research team established the extraction method of artemisinin based on a great deal of researches on traditional Chinese medicine, inspired by the Handbook of Prescriptions for Emergency. At present, artemisinin and its derivatives are the most effective for the treatment of malaria in the world. Artemisinin combination therapy, used in malaria areas of almost all countries and regions, treats more than 100 million cases a year and has reduced the incidence and mortality of malaria in the world.(Yuan Yanan et al.,2017)

During Covid-19, Yupingfeng Powder, Zhenqi Fuzheng Preparation, Huoxiang Zhengqi Preparation, Lianhua Qingwen Capsule and other internal medicine are suggested for vulnerable people or those under medical observation with fatigue and fever. Although the above prescriptions have played an important role in the prevention and treatment of Covid-19, it’s not recommended for healthy people take them.(Chen Hongzhi et al.,2020)

b.Aromatherapy of TCM

It refers to the treatment in which smoke, sachet, spray made of aromatic Chinese medicines infiltrate into the body through nasal cavity, skin or oral cavity to exert its efficacy. Plant essential oils and other aromatherapy products are used in massage, bath, smell, and external application to improve metabolism and speed up the elimination of toxins in the body.(Yang Dingquan,2017)

c.Cosmetology and TCM

There are many records of cosmetic prescriptions in Qing Imperial Palace archives. In modern times, people can enhance appearance by using TCM therapies (acupuncture, massage, cupping and gua sha) and beauties containing Chinese herb extracts. If you search for skincare products and cosmetics on Taobao, JD or other Chinese famous online shopping platforms, you may well find lots of choices that boast extractions from Chinese herbal medicine in their product introductions.

d.Regimen and TCM

Taking medicated diet is common in China to improve health. A medicated dish include several ingredients with medicinal benefits like angelica sinensis, codonopsis pilosula, radix astragali, dried lotus seeds, goji berries, jujube, ginseng. Different medicated diets have different effects. For instance, dried lotus seeds decrease internal heat and goji berries are good for eyes.

People soak their feet in warm water containing Chinese herbs to relieve fatigue and boost blood circulation. Many add goji berries, dried honeysuckle flowers or dried golden chrysanthemums into the hot water of insulated mugs to keep fit.

Cupping, acupuncture and gua sha are all the rage. Many content creators on varied platforms shared their experiences of receiving TCM therapies. Here is an excerpt from an article by Hannah Seo published in New York Times, Sept. 12, 2022.

If you scroll through Tiktok and Instagram for long enough, you’ll likely find someone scraping, brushing or massaging their skin in pursuit of better health or an enhanced appearance. Testimonies abound — about body scraping to loosen stiff limbs, gua sha for a sculpted jawline, vibrating facial massagers to reduce puffiness, dry brushing for “detoxing”.

Many athletes tried acupuncture and cupping to deal with problems like sore muscles and stiff joints. For instance, in Rio Olympics 2016, swimmer Michael Phelps had cupping, leaving a bunch of reddish-purple marks on his body.

Drawbacks of TCM

TCM has its shortcomings. For example, it’s difficult to evaluate whether TCM nutrition could play a major role in treatment of various diseases (Zhao Xinyu, et al.,2020). Many TCM prescriptions were based on practitioners’ experience but are lack of evidence-based research.

Foreign researchers find that TCM methodology for diagnosis and pathology treatment heavily relies on the time of exposure for all ailments. Other limitations of this metanalysis include the many variables of patient demographics, different herbal preparations, and access to funding to purchase such preparations. ( L. Dr A. Varon, D. Varon & J. Varon,2020)

Therefore, many Chinese doctors tend to combine treatments from TCM and western medicine so as to find optimal therapies for patients.

Conclusion

TCM is a source of inspirations for R&D of modern pharmacy, cosmetology and other fields. Due to its limitations, more researches are to be done on efficacy and safety.

Terms and Expressions

regimen 养生

Handbook of Prescriptions for Emergency 《肘后备急方》

artemisinin combination therapy 青蒿素联合疗法

Yupingfeng Powder 玉屏风散

Zhenqi Fuzheng Preparation 贞芪扶正制剂

Huoxiang Zhengqi Preparation 藿香正气制剂

Lianhua Qingwen Capsule 连花清瘟胶囊

sachet香囊

cupping拔罐

gua sha刮痧

medicated diet药膳

acupuncture针灸

aromatherapy 芳香疗法

cosmetology美容，美容业

beauties 美容产品

angelica sinensis当归

codonopsis pilosula党参

radix astragali黄芪

dried lotus seeds干莲子

goji berries枸杞

jujube红枣

ginseng人参

honeysuckle flowers 金银花

insulated mugs保温杯

Questions

1.What are the five characteristics of TCM?

A, Holistic view B. Emphasis on harmony C. Personalized therapy D. Preventative treatment as a core E.Simplicity

2.Which kind of therapy is used in malaria areas of almost all countries and regions?

A.artemisinin combination therapy B. acupuncture C. gua sha D. chalcanthite

3.What is Aromatherapy of TCM?

A.smoke made of aromatic Chinese medicines B. sachet made of aromatic Chinese medicines C. perfume D. spray made of aromatic Chinese medicines

4.What kind of TCM treatments are all the rage on social media?

A.Cupping B. gua sha C. acupuncture D. medicated diet

Answers

1.ABCDE

2.A

3.ABD

4.ABC

References

1.http://www.scio.gov.cn/zfbps/ndhf/34120/index.htm《中国的中医药》白皮书[Traditional Chinese Medicine in China]

2.Hou Xianglang and Houmingxia侯香浪，何明霞(2015).中国文化英语教程 [An English Course of Chinese Culture]. Wuhan: Wuhan University武汉大学

3.Yuan Yannan,et al.( 2017)袁亚男, 姜廷良, 周兴, 等. 青蒿素的发现和发展[Discovery and development of artemisinin (in Chinese)].科学通报 [Chin Sci Bull](18):1914-1927

4.Chen Hongzhi,et al.(2020)陈泓志,陈虎博,王晨曦,龚彦溶,向兴,张慧卿.中医常用防疫方药的现代应用[Current application of commonly used traditional Chinese herbal medicine and formulae for preventing severe infectious diseases].药学服务与研究 [Pharm Care Res](4):292

5.Yang Dingquan(2017)杨顶权.中医美容之路——传承创新,整合发展[Chinese Medicine and Cosmetology --Inheritance,Innovation and Development]. 皮肤科学通报 [Dermatology Bulletin](6):629

6.Hannah Seo, New York Times, Sept. 12,2022

7.Zhao Xinyu, et al.(2020).Nutrition and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM): a system's theoretical perspective. European journal of clinical nutrition(2)

8. L. Dr Adylle Varon,Daryelle S. Varon & Joseph Varon.(2020).Traditional chinese medicine and COVID-19: should emergency practitioners use it?. American Journal of Emergency Medicine (prepublish)

202270081664 肖家禹 Xiao Jiayu 英语笔译(English translation)

The Han Tombs of Mawangdui

肖家禹 Xiao Jiayu, 202270081664

Abstract

This chapter briefly introduces the Han Tombs of Mawangdui in Changsha, including the origin of the name and the findings of the excavation. The cultural relics excavated from the tombs are of great value in studying the politics, economy, military affairs, culture, science and technology of the early Western Han period.

Key Words

the Han Tombs of Mawangdui, the origin of the name, the funeral objects, the female corpse

摘要

本章简要介绍了长沙马王堆汉墓，包括其名字由来及考古发现。该墓葬出土的文物对研究西汉初期的政治、经济、军事、文化、科学技术等具有重要价值。

关键词

马王堆汉墓，名字由来，随葬物品，西汉女尸

Introduction

From 1972 to early 1974, Chinese archaeological workers unearthed 3 tombs of the Western Han Dynasty (206 BC-25 AD) at Mawangdui of Changsha, Hunan Province, which has attracted great attention at home and abroad. This chapter mainly deals with the archaeological findings of the Han Tombs of Mawangdui.

The Origin of the Name

Mawangdui is located in the eastern outskirts of Changsha, Hunan Province. In the preceding centuries, it was said that Ma Yin, King of the ducal state of Chu in the Five Dynasties Period (907-960), was buried here, hence the name "Mawangdui" (the Mound of King Ma). Formerly 2 earthen mounds here were closely linked together in the shape of a horse saddle. Thus, it was also called "Ma'andui" (the Horse Saddle Mound). In some historical documents it is called "Erfeimu" (the Tombs of Two Concubines), and "Shuangnüfen" (the Tombs of Two Ladies). The opinions about the ownership of the tombs varied widely, and the truth did no come out until the excavation. (Xiong Chuanxin 2005,1-2)

The Excavation

There were 3 tombs at Mawangdui. The eastern mound was known as Tomb No.1, and the western mound as Tomb No.2. The third tomb was located to the south of Tomb No.1 and was covered up by the sealing soil so that there was no visible trace of its existence.

Tomb No.1 was an immense earthen pit with a sloping passage way and 4 steps. It was 20.5 m deep from the top of the covering mound to the bottom of the shaft. Most of the funeral objects were damaged in Tomb No. 2. Tomb No. 3 resembled Tomb No. 1 in construction, but it was smaller in size.

The Funeral Objects

The funeral objects unearthed from the tombs are abundant, such as silk paintings, silk books, weapons, bamboo slips and lacquerware. Among them the silk paintings and silk books reveal much about the past history.

a. Silk Paintings

Both the innermost coffins of Tombs No. 1 and No.3 were covered by T-shaped color paintings on silk. The paintings are of similar subjects: heaven, the human society and the nether world. Well balanced and ingeniously composed, the paintings harmoniously interweave fairy tales with reality. The artistic skills of the paintings make them masterpieces of ancient art. Judging from the shape, content and the positions of the paintings, we know that they were funeral banners used in funeral ceremonies to usher the spirit up to heaven. (Deng Hui, Chen Huali 2020)

On the eastern and western walls of the chamber in Tomb No. 3 were hung 2 rectangular silk paintings. The one on the western wall portrays 100 people, several hundred horses and dozens of chariots. The figure representing the tomb occupant is standing on a high terrace, inspecting his troops before an expedition. Thus, the painting might be entitled "Painting of an Expedition". However, the painting on the eastern wall was in state of decay so only some remaining parts of chariots, galloping horses and women could be made out. It might a description of the extravagant life the tomb occupant led before his death. (Liu Dunyuan 1978)

b. Silk Books

The silk books unearthed from Tomb No. 3 bear over 100,000 characters. They provide a wealth of new data for the study of China's ancient history, philosophical thinking, science and technology. Among the silk books, there are 2 copied versions of the manuscripts of Lao Zi. (Daniel Sungbin Sou 2016,136) Version A is followed by copies of 4 essays, heretofore believed to be lost, and version B is preceded by copies of 4 more "lost" essays, i.e. "On Law", "Sixteen Classics", "Balance" and "The Source of the Way". （Xiao Han 1974）

There are also new historical data of the Spring and Autumn Period and the Warring States Period (770 BC-221 BC): Anecdotes and Speeches in the Spring and Autumn Period, and Letters by Political Strategists in the Warring States Period, as well as The Motion of Five Planets and Divination and The Chart of Physical Exercises. Altogether, there is a total of over 20 valuable books, most of which were believed to have been lost. The discovery of these books is of monumental importance to Han historians in their reconsideration of ancient Chinese history.

The Female Corpse

What has attracted the greatest attention is the corpse of Xin Zhui, Li Cang's wife, which was well preserved in Tomb No. 1 for over 2,100 years. (Jeffrey K. Riegel 1975, 11) The body was 154 cm tall and weighed 34.3 kg. The external appearance was intact, the whole body was moist, the skin was complete, and most of the hair remained at its original follicles. Some of the joints were movable to a certain extent and the tissue still maintained certain elasticity.

Comprehensive research was also made into the reasons for the sound preservation of the ancient corpse. Immediately after her death, the body was bathed, wrapped tightly with about 20 layers of shrouds and cloth, and sealed in air tight coffins. The anoxic environment within the innermost coffin was gradually created, which helped retard the decay of the corpse. (Shin Dong Hoon 2018, 9)

The studies of the pathological changes of the ancient corpse, the cause of death and the unearthed Chinese herbal medicine bring to light the situation of the diseases and the applied prescriptions and drugs of traditional Chinese medicine in the feudal society 2,100 years ago, and provide valuable data for the further exploration and systematization of the medical heritage of China.

Conclusion

The archaeological findings at Han Tombs of Mawangdui is of monumental importance in modern times. More researches are to be done to learn about various aspects of the early Western Han period so as to make further exploration based on them.

References

1.Daniel Sungbin Sou. (2012). The Old Master: A Syncretic Reading of the Laozi from Mawangdui Text A Onward. By Hongkyung Kim. SUNY Series in Chinese Philosophy and Culture. Albany: State University of New York Press, 2012. Pp. vii + 310. Cloth, $75.00; paper, $26.95[J]. Religious Studies Review, 2016, 42(2): 136-136.

2.Deng Hui, Chen Huali 邓辉,陈华丽. (2020). 魂归何处:马王堆一号汉墓T形帛画中的阴阳、神仙思想[The Yin-Yang and Immortal Ideas in the T-shaped Silk Paintings of Mawangdui No.1 Han Tomb][J]. 吉首大学学报(社会科学版) Journal of Jishou University (Social Sciences), 2020,41(01):94-101.DOI:10.13438/j.cnki.jdxb.2020.01.010.

3.Jeffrey K. Riegel. (1975). A Summary of some Recent Wenwu and Kaogu Articles on Mawangdui Tombs Two and Three[J]. Early China, 1975, 1: 10-15.

4.Liu Dunyuan 刘敦愿. (1978). 马王堆西汉帛画中的若干神话问题[Discussions on the Myth in Silk Painting in the Han Tombs of Mawangdui][J].文史哲 Literature, History and Philosophy,1978(04):64-73.DOI:10.16346/j.cnki.37-1101/c.1978.04.011.

5.Shin Dong Hoon et al. (2018). Mummification in Korea and China: Mawangdui, Song, Ming and Joseon Dynasty Mummies. [J]. BioMed research international, 2018, 2018: 6215025.

6.Xiong Chuanxin 熊传薪.(2005).马王堆汉墓发掘记[The Excavation of the Han Tombs of Mawangdui][J]. 大自然探索 Discovery of Nature,2005(04):64-71.

7.Xiao Han 晓菡. (1974). 长沙马王堆汉墓帛书概述[Overview of Silk Books in the Han Tombs of Mawangdui in Changsha][J].文物 Cultural Relics,1974(09):40-44.

Terms and Expressions

Mawangdui 马王堆

Ma'andui 马鞍堆

Erfeimu 二妃墓

Shuangnüfen 双女坟

T-Shaped Silk Painting T形帛画

Usher the spirit up to heaven 引魂升天

Painting of An Expedition 出征图

On Law 《经法》

Sixteen Classics 《十六经》

Balance 《称》

The Source of the Way 《道原》

Anecdotes and Speeches in the Spring and Autumn Period《春秋事语》

Letters by Political Strategists in the Warring States Period《战国纵横家书》

The Motion of Five Planets and Divination《五星占》

The Chart of Physical Exercises《导引图》

Xin Zhui 辛追

Li Cang 利苍

Questions

1.Which of the following names are the alternatives to Mawangdui?

A. Ma'andui

B. Maoling

C. Erfeimu

D. Shuangnüfen

2.How many tombs are there at Mawangdui?

A. One

B. Two

C. Three

D. Four

3. What new historical data of the Spring and Autumn Period and the Warring States Period were unearthed at Mawangdui?

A. Anecdotes and Speeches in the Spring and Autumn Period

B. Letters by Political Strategists in the Warring States Period

C. The Motion of Five Planets and Divination

D. The Chart of Physical Exercises

4.Which of the following cultural relics excavated from the Han Tombs of Mawangdui has attracted the greatest attention?

A. A female corpse

B. Silk paintings

C. Wooden figurines

D. Bamboo slips

Answers

1. A, C, D

2. C

3. A, B, C, D

4. A

202270081665 肖娜 Xiao Na 英语笔译(English Translation)

Chinese Festival:Double Ninth Festival

肖娜 Xiao Na，202270081665

Abstract

Double Ninth Festival is a traditional festival in China, which plays an pivotal role in carrying forward traditional culture.The chapter mainly introduces the origin and traditional customs and modern values of Double Ninth Festival.

Key Words

Origin,Customs ,Modern values,Double Ninth Festival.

题目

重阳节

摘要

重阳节是中国传统节日，在弘扬中国传统文化中起到至关重要的作用。本论文主要介绍了重阳节的起源、传统习俗及其当代价值。

关键词

起源；习俗；当代价值；重阳节

Introduction

Chongyang Festival could be traced back the Book of Changes and it has become popular for many years.

The origin of Double Ninth Festival

Double Ninth Festival, “Chongyang” in Chinese, is also known for Cornel Festival or Chrysanthemum Festival or Chung Yeung Festival. The origin of "Chongyang" can be traced back to the ancient Book of Changes, “以阳爻为九”(Taking Yang Yao as nine),“爻(Yao)”means the symbols that form the diagrams and the “阳爻(Yang Yao)”means the hexagram of Qian. According to the earliest ancient philosophy, “Yin-Yang School”, the ancient people divided everything in the world into Yin and Yang, and numbers are no exception. （Baidu Baike-“Yang Yao” ）（Chen Yan 2011,58） In Chinese，nine is regarded as yang number (which means masculine as supposed to yin which is feminine). The ninth day of the ninth month is the day that has two yang members and chong in Chinese means double, which is how the name Chongyang came into being. ( Hou Xianglang, He Mingxia 2015,173) Generally speaking, some customs of the Double Ninth Festival have been shown in the social traditional customs of the pre-Qin Dynasty. The Festival, took shape in the Eastern Han Dynasty and was finalized in Six Dynasties, which has been an important traditional festival widely spread among the people now. （Chen Yan 2011,58） In the year of 1989, Chongyang Festival was designated as Senior's Day-a day to respect the elderly. Many companies organize trips for senior citizens to climb mountains on the day. Members of a family also accompany their elders to have outings. ( Hou Xianglang, He Mingxia 2015,174)

Traditional customs of the Double Ninth Festival

1.Climbing Mountains

Since the Western Han Dynasty, it has been the custom of climbing on the Chongyang Festival. There was a tradition of filial piety and respect for the elderly. In addition, the custom could drive away bad luck and disasters and “climbing to a higher position”, which are the reasons why ancient people paid much more attention to the custom. Apart from these, the elderly value it because that has a meaning of “climbing to a longer life”. (Baidu Baike-“Double Ninth Festival”)

2. Appreciating Chrysanthemum

September is also known as “chrysanthemum month”. Chrysanthemum, originated in China and was recorded in some Chinese books as early as the Fifth century B.C., which has a beautiful name –the flower of longevity. And the flower is a traditional herbal medicine for the Double Ninth Festival, so drinking chrysanthemum wine and enjoying chrysanthemum are also traditional activities on the Double Ninth Festival (Wang Xiaoying 2006, 95)

3. Drinking Chrysanthemum Wine

Chrysanthemums have the function of antitoxin (抗毒素) and can drive the evil away. Chinese people believe that by drinking chrysanthemum wine, all kinds of diseases and disasters can be cured and prevented. Thus, drinking chrysanthemum wine is an indispensable part of the festival. As nine is pronounced “jiu”, meaning long in Chinese, so people endow the word “jiu” with the meaning of longevity. ( Hou Xianglang, He Mingxia 2015,174)( Rothschild N. Harry.2021,39)

4. Eating Double Ninth Cake

In September, the rice is ripe, which is a kind of food in that reason and considered as sacrifices to ancestors. In China, “Gao (cake)” has the same pronunciation with “Gao (height)”. Therefore, eating cake also means climbing.

5. Ancestors Worship

The Chongyang Festival is one of the four traditional Chinese ancestor worship festivals, and there is a tradition of ancestor worship and blessing among ancient folk. The most fundamental role of sacrificing ancestors is to enhance people's cultural identity and strengthen the cohesion of family and society. In the traditional custom, Qingming Festival is the "spring worship" and Chongyang Festival is the "autumn worship". The traditional custom to pay respect to ancestors has been continued to this day. (Baidu Baike-“Double Ninth Festival”)

6. Wearing Dogwood

This custom originated in the Jin Dynasty，because “Double Ninth” is a symbol of fierce, so wearing dogwood is used for against evil . In addition, the custom is pursuit of beauty and longevity. This custom has faded with the subtle shift of the Double Ninth Festival, its humanistic value has been spread for a long time.(Chen Yan 2011,60)

The Modern Values of the Double Ninth Festival

When General Secretary Xi Jinping talked about traditional culture, he once proposed to realize the creative transformation and innovative development of traditional culture, so we should find out the true values of the traditional culture, especially the traditional festival. Firstly, the historical and cultural resources contained in the Double Ninth Festival are the basis for us to tell the Chinese stories and enhance the spread of Chinese culture. The Ancient books and poetry show us how the ancient people celebrated the festival, which contains profound humanistic spirit that lays the foundation for our understanding and inheritance of the culture of the Festival. These colorful forms of the Festival harmonize the interpersonal relationships, monotonous life of the ancients, and carry the ethics of the ancient Chinese to respect the nature. Secondly, the Festival could boost the development of traditional industries. The Double Ninth Festival provides inspiration for the research and development and production of catering industry products. The Double Ninth cake, for instance, has a wide variety, rich nutrition and profound cultural connotation, which is combined with modern cakes that will add new varieties. (Ren Zheng 2020,77-78)

Conclusion

Chongyang Fsetival contributes to the development of Chinese culture , economy and other fields.We should treat our traditional festival in a right way.

References

[1][Ren Zheng]任正.重阳节俗的历史检视与当代价值[The Historical Inspection and Contemporary Value of the Double Ninth Festival][J].山西高等学校社会科学学报[Journal of Social Science of Shanxi Colleges and Universities],2020,32(07):73-80.DOI:10.16396/j.cnki.sxgxskxb.2020.07.

[2][Chen Yan]陈艳.重阳节的起源及风俗文化[The Origin and Customs and Culture of the Double Ninth Festival][J].内蒙古民族大学学报[Journal of Inner Mongolia University for Nationalities],2011,17(03)

[3][Wang Xiaoying]王小英.重阳节的起源及民俗文化意味[The Origin of the Double Ninth Festival Folk Culture Meaning][J].黑龙江教育学院学报[Journal of Hei longjiang Institute of Education],2006(06)

[4]百度百科重阳节[Baidu Baike-“Double Ninth Festival”]

[5]百度百科阳爻[Baidu Baike-“Yang Yao”]

[6]https://baijiahao.baidu.com/s?id=1646788002989805100&wfr=spider&for=pc&searchword.(重阳节的介绍，introduction of Chongyang Festival)

[7]中国文化英语教程=An English Course of Chinese Culture/侯香浪,何明霞[Hou Xianglang, He Mingxia].-武汉:武汉大学出版社[Wuhan, Wuhan University Press],2015.9

[8].The Double Ninth Festival[J].时代英语(高二),2022(05):2.

[9]Rothschild N. Harry. Chrysanthemum Cakravartin: How the Convergence of the Double Ninth Festival and a Buddhist Prophecy of a Female Warrior King Helped Wu Zhao Inaugurate the Zhou Dynasty and Fashion a New Paradigm of Political Authority[J]. Tang Studies,2021,39(1).

[10]. AsianDate All Set to Usher in China's Double Ninth Festival and Bring Good Luck to Members[J]. M2 Presswire,2015.

Terms and Expressions

Double Ninth Festival/ Cornel Festival/Chrysanthemum Festival / Chung Yeung Festival.重阳节

Book of Changes 《易经》

the hexagram of Qian 乾卦

Yin-Yang School阴阳说

Senior's Day 老人节

Climbing Mountains登高

Appreciating Chrysanthemum赏菊

Drinking Chrysanthemum Wine饮菊花酒

Eating Double Ninth Cake吃重阳糕

Ancestors Worship祭祀祖先

Wearing Dogwood 插茱萸

Questions

1. When did the Double Ninth Festival take shape?

A.Eastern Han Dynasty B.Tang Dynasty C.Song Dynasty D.Western Dynasty

2. What kind of custom means “climb to a higher position”?

A.Wearing Dogwood B.Eating Double Ninth Cake C.Climbing Mountains D.Ancestors worship

3. What is called“ the flower of longevity”？

A.Peony B.Daffodil C.Lotus D. Chrysanthemum

4. When is “Autumn worship”?

A.Eating Double Ninth Cake B. Chongyang Festival C.Qingming Festival D.Dragon-boat Festival

Answers

1.A

2.C

3.D

4.B

202270081666 肖喆琳 Xiao Zhelin 英语笔译(English translation)

Chinese Yellow River Valley Civilization

肖喆琳Xiao Zhelin, 202270081666

Abstract

The Chinese Yellow River Valley, the earliest developed area in China, is the birthplace of Chinese civilization. It is on this vast land where diligent and brave Chinese ancestors labored and lived, and produced brilliant ancient culture. This chapter aims to make a brief introduction to the Chinese Yellow River and to illustrate the Yellow River Valley Civilization from the prespectives of geographical feature and agricultural civilization.

Key Words

civilization; Yellow River Valley; origin

题目

中国黄河流域文明

摘要

黄河流域是中国最早得到开发的地区，也是中华文明的发祥地。在这片广袤的土地上，勤劳勇敢的中国人辛勤劳作、乐观生活，并创造出璀璨文明。本章旨在对黄河进行简要介绍，从黄河流域文明的地形特征和农耕文明两方面来进行阐述。

关键词

文明；黄河流域；起源

A Brief Introduction of the Yellow River

The Yellow River is the second-longest river in China (after the Yangtze River) and the sixth-longest in the world at the estimated length of 5,464 km. Originating in the Bayan Har Mountains in Qinghai Province of western China, it flows through nine provinces (Qinghai, Sichuan, Gansu, Ningxia, Inner Mongolia, Shaanxi, Shanxi, Henan, Shandong Province), and it drains into the Bohai Sea near the city of Dongying in Shandong Province. For thousands of years, the Yellow River has been known as the ‘mother river’ of the Chinese nation and the ‘cradle of Chinese civilization’.

Origin of Chinese civilization in the Yellow River Valley

The Yellow River is referred to not only as a river, but also as a symbol of the Chinese nation. As the Yellow River flows from the Bayan Har Mountains to Bohai Sea, it drains a basin of 745,000 square kilometers, which has been the most prosperous region in early Chinese history. There were people living in the Yellow River Valley as early as about one million years ago, including the Lantian people, Hetao people and Dingcun people.(Hou Xianglang, He mingxia 2015) These residents industriously created a remarkable civilization. They not only made material progress for humanity, but also created Paleolithic culture. They discovered the way to make fire and acquired the skills of drilling and polishing tools after continuous practice. They also made crude stone and bone implements in order to hunt and fish. After the long Paleolithic Age, agriculture and polished stone implements ushered in the Neolithic Age. Afterwards, matriarchy was gradually replaced by patriarchy and wars among tribes arose. Finally, the powerful Yellow Emperor defeated Emperor Yan, laying the foundation for the Huaxia nation. As they mainly lived in the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River, in the Central Plains (Zhongyuan), the Huaxia nation was also called Zhonghua nation (combination of Zhongyuan and Huaxia). This is how Chinese culture originated and why all Chinese people regard themselves as the descendants of Emperor Yan and Yellow Emperor, and view the Yellow River as the mother river that created the Chinese culture.

Geographical Feature

A river civilization is an agricultural nation or civilization originated along a river while sea civilization is sprouted around seas (Clayton & Dent，1973).The topography along The Yellow River varies greatly, a vast land of lofty plateau, large plains, rolling land and big and small basins surrounded by lofty mountains. As a result,the climate along the Yellow River Valley is diverse with subtropical in the south to subarctic in the north. Monsoon winds, caused by differences in the heat-absorbing capacity of the continent and the ocean, dominate the climate. Alternating seasons with air-mass movements and accompanying winds are moist in summer and dry in winter. The advance and retreat of the monsoons account in large degree for the timing of the rainy season and the amount of rainfall throughout the country. Tremendous differences in latitude, longitude, and altitude give rise to sharp variations in precipitation and temperature within China. What's more, the Chinese mainland is semi-enclosed. To its east, the vast Pacific loomed unconquerable without advanced navigational equipment and skills. To its southwest, the mountains and tropical forests hindered the Chinese from communicating with their Southeastern Asian neighbors. While to the northwest, the desserts blockaded China from the European continent. The Silk Road once linking China and Europe had never become a prominent trading route due to the enormous distance. Such geographical conditions determined that ancient China was far away and isolated from the other centers of civilization, which on the one hand, ensured the homogeneity and continuity of Chinese culture, on the other hand, encouraged the self-reclusive conservative consciousness, and blind superpower mentality. (Yang Ruiying,Tian mei 2016)

Agricultural Civilization

So far, there have been thousands of discoveries of agricultural sites during the Neolithic Age all across China, especially along the Yellow River and Yangtze River. Around 4000 BC, when the area was much more temperate and forested, populations around the southern bend of the Yellow River began to practice agriculture. They sowed millet, but sometime later, the Chinese began cultivating rice in the south, near the Huai River. There was a Neolithic，tribal people who used stone tools. They domesticated animals very early while still continued hunting. Remains of game animals were almost as common as domestic animals in these villages. The development of agriculture and domestication of animals allowed people to stay in one spot instead of wandering from place to place following their main food source---animals. Some Neolithic people learned how to plant and raise crops, and keep and raise livestock for food. People were put in the situation of living together permanently. As a result, much cooperation was needed for survival and agricultural civilization started to grow. This mode of life to a large extent contributed to the type of culture and civilization. The Chinese thus became sedentary people with a highly developed agriculture.(Pringle，H. 1998)

Conclusion

In Chinese history, the Yellow River is not simply an array of characters on a page and the name of a river. In fact, millennia ago, the Chinese civilization emerged from the central region of this basin. The land in the basin was rich, and the farmers needed the rivers for growing crops and transportation. At the same time, the source of rich land was new soil deposited each year when the rivers flooded. So farmers are also worried about floods. This caused them to focus on the control of floods and to exploit the potential of the arable land.(Yang, X.J 2010) Therefore, in a sense, the rivers provided water for farming crops which had become a catalyst for the growth or civilization.The development of agriculture helped people committeed to specialized trades and crafts.Based on this agricultural culture, Chinese society developed a feudal system which emphasized family ties，patriarchy and royalty. Throughout history, the excellent location, the mild climate, the fertile soil, the abundant resources and the advantageous transportation have made the Yellow River Valley favorable to the development of the Yellow River Valley civilization.

References

1.Clayton, P.A.，Dent，J. The Ancient River Civilizations: Western Man & theModern World[M].Amsterdam:Elsevier，1973.

2.Pringle，H. The Slow Birth of Agriculture[J]. Science，1998，282(5393)，1446

3.Yang, X.J.Origin of Agriculture and Evolution of Chinese Early Civilization[J]Journal of Anhui Agri Sci.2010，38(25)，14169 - 14170.

4.Hou Xianglang and He mingxia侯香浪，何明霞(2015).中国文化英语教程 [An English Course of Chinese Culture]. Wuhan: Wuhan University武汉大学

5.Yang Ruiying and Tian mei 杨瑞英，田美(2016).中西文化比较[Chinese and Western Culture: A Comparative Approach]. Xian: Xian Jiaotong University 西安交通大学

Terms and Expressions

Bayan Har Mountains 巴颜喀拉山脉

Bohai Sea 渤海

Lantian people 蓝田猿人

Hetao people 河套人

Dingcun people 丁村人

Paleolithic culture 旧石器文化

Neolithic Age 新石器时代

Matriarchy 母系社会

Patriarchy 父系社会

Huai River 淮河

Questions

1.Which one does the Yellow River drains into?

A.Bohai Sea

B.Huanghai Sea

C.Donghai Sea

2.How many provinces does the Yellow River flow through？

A.Six

B. Seven

C. Eight

D.Nine

3.The Yellow River has been known as the ‘mother river’ of Chinese nation and the ‘cradle of Chinese civilization’.

Ture

False

4.which of the following people living in the Yellow River Valley as early as about one million years ago?

A.Lantian people

B.Hetao people

C.Dingcun people

Answers

1.A

2.D

3.Ture

4.ABC

202270081667 谢佳玉 Xie Jiayu 英语笔译(English translation)

Chinese Liuqing-style bamboo carving

谢佳玉 Xie Jiayu, 202270081667

Abstract

As a traditional handicraft of the Chinese nation, Liuqing-style bamboo carving has a long history, a wide range of themes and exquisite craftsmanship. This paper mainly introduces the development, materials, themes, and cultural value of the Liuqing-style bamboo carving.

Key Words

Liuqing-style bamboo carving; Intangible cultural heritage; Development

题目

中国留青竹刻

摘要

留青竹刻作为中华民族的传统手工技艺，历史悠久、题材广泛、工艺精湛。本文主要介绍了留青竹刻的发展历史，选材，创作题材及其文化价值。

关键词

留青竹刻；非物质文化遗产；发展

Introduction

Liuqing-style bamboo carving is one of the three treasures of Changzhou, Jiangsu Province. It is a national intangible cultural heritage. This kind of bamboo carving is an art form of creating and carving on the skin of bamboo. Craftsmen carve on the surface of the bamboo, removing the green parts except for the pattern and exposing the bamboo muscles as the background color of the pattern. (Zhang Meng 2016, 125) Liuqing-style bamboo carving is generally divided into five steps. The first step is to draw the pattern. The outline of the artistic image must be clear. The second step is to circle the edge. The carving process cannot be reversed. The third step is to remove bamboo skin and expose the bamboo muscle. Craftsmen must use even force when shoveling bamboo skin. If the force is too great, it is easy to lead to permanent damage of bamboo muscle. If the force is too light, it will not reach the effect and shoveling again will increase the difficulty. The fourth step is to divide layers, which uses knife to carve the detail and different levels on the bamboo skin to show the thick ink and light ink in Chinese painting. The last step is to smooth the surface of the bamboo muscle and to retouch flaws. This process usually takes five or six repetitions before it is finally completed. (Liu Mengjiao 2015, 168)

Development

The art of bamboo carving has a long history and began to rise as early as the Western Han Dynasty. (Yang Chunyan, Xia Yilin 2021, 74) Liuqing-style bamboo carving art originated in the Tang Dynasty, and the Liuqing-style bamboo carving product “Shakuhachi”, carved by the Tang people, is now collected in Shosoin of Japan. “Shakuhachi” is a bamboo musical instrument patterned with flowers and birds. (Qian Kaiyi 2013, 37) Liuqing-style bamboo carving was relatively forthright at first, without using the technique of contrasting bamboo skin with background color to express artistic image. During the Song and Yuan dynasties, the skill was developed, and the works were more finely carved. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, Liuqing-style bamboo carving developed most rapidly. Craftsmen were able to use the techniques of full retention, little retention, and more retention to carve bamboo skin. (Liu Mengjiao 2015, 168) In the late Qing Dynasty, due to the exploitation of the government and the plunder of the imperialist, Liuqing-style bamboo carving gradually declined. After the 1950s, Liuqing-style bamboo carving not only recovered, but also stepped up to a new level. Changzhou, Jiading, Shanghai, Wuxi and other cities have emerged a number of masters. (Zhang Meng 2015, 50)

Materials

The materials of Liuqing-style bamboo carving are dainty. Mao bamboos in the deep mountains should be the most suitable materials. The age of bamboo is important. If it is too tender, the bamboo skin will be soft, not resistant to fine carving. If it is too old, the bamboo filament will be very rough, and the carved work do not withstand close scrutiny. Generally speaking, choosing four years old bamboo is better. Winter is the best season to take bamboo, especially at the lowest temperature. At this time, the bamboo has been completely shrunk with high density and good quality. Bamboo joints should be long and straight, without worn sting, color or markings. In order to prevent scratches in the process of cutting, bamboo should be placed gently on the ground when it is cut down. It can prevent the bamboo skin from rubbing with the stones on the ground, which will leave marks. If conditions permit, craftsmen can take the bamboo on the spot and boil it, removing the fat and worm eggs, and wipe the sap on the bamboo with a towel, so that the bamboo is bright and clean. The boiled bamboo should be exposed to the sun for as long as possible. After more than a month, the color of the bamboo will turn pale yellow. If any of the bamboo is cracked, it should be abandoned. The rest without cracking is the good material for carving. (Zhang Meng 2015, 50)

Themes

Liuqing-style bamboo carving mainly includes four themes. (1) flowers, plants and trees. It is a very important content, which integrates the artist’s personal characteristics, and most artists often use the form of bamboo carving to express their personal interests, aspirations and ideals, so that Liuqing-style bamboo carving has the artistic conception of humanistic paintings. (Tan Wenru 2021, 142) (2) Fish, insects, birds and beasts. They often express the author’s expectations for good fortune, and many animals are endowed with personality trait. (Zhang Meng 2016, 126) (3) mountains, rivers and pavilions. Although bamboo carving cannot make people feel as magnificent as painting, it can also show the changes of reality and emptiness and inky effect of landscape painting. (Tan Wenru 2021, 142) (4) figures. Liuqing-style bamboo carving carves people’s expressions and movements, which can show their personality and state of mind. (Zhang Meng 2016, 126)

Cultural value

As a common material in Chinese people’s life, bamboo not only appears in many fields of people’s life, but also internalizes into people’s spiritual field. Because of this, bamboo is called Chinese bamboo culture. Therefore, bamboo has formed a relatively fixed aesthetic image, and the combination of bamboo natural characteristics with Chinese ethical value has gradually created many spiritual symbols. (Xiao Yingying, Chen Juan 2018, 74) Inspired by the philosophy of “harmony between man and nature”, Liuqing-style bamboo carving makes the natural beauty and artificial beauty harmoniously integrate and advocates to achieve the beautifulness of natural origin with a quiet state of mind and superb skills. Liuqing-style bamboo carving integrates the traditional carving art and art style of literati painting, which has certain cultural value. (Chen Yan, Zhang Xun 2022, 135)

Conclusion

Liuqing-style bamboo carving has been included in the intangible cultural heritage of Changzhou with its rich themes, excellent skills, which has high collection value and aesthetic value. We should let more people appreciate its unique charm, so that Liuqing-style bamboo carving has more lasting vitality.

References

[1] Zhang Meng张孟. (2016). 留青竹刻的艺术特色演变及发展[The evolution and development of the artistic characteristics of Liuqing-style bamboo carving].中国民族博览 China National Exposition (07) 125-126. [2] Liu Mengjiao刘梦娇. (2015). 常州留青竹刻传统技艺的嬗变与发展[Evolution and development of traditional technique of Liuqing-style bamboo carving in Changzhou]. 现代装饰(理论) Modern Decoration (Theory) (08) 168. [3] Qian Kaiyi钱凯一. (2013). 浅谈中国竹刻艺术的流变与传承——以常州留青竹刻为例[On the evolution and inheritance of Chinese bamboo carving art -- Taking Liuqing-style bamboo carving in Changzhou as an example]. 美术教育研究 Art Education Research (09) 37-38. [4] Zhang Meng张孟. (2015). 浅谈留青竹刻由来与选材[On the origin and material selection of Liuqing-style bamboo carving]. 美术教育研究 Art Education Research (03) 50. [5] Chen Yan, Zhang Xun陈艳,张珣. (2022). 非物质文化遗产常州留青竹刻的传承与发展[Inheritance and development of Changzhou Liuqing-style bamboo carving, an intangible cultural heritage]. 工业设计 Industrial Design (07) 134-136. [6] Tan Wenru谭文如. (2021). 浅析常州留青竹刻的艺术特征[A brief analysis of the artistic characteristics of Changzhou Liuqing-style bamboo carving]. 名家名作 Famous Works and Artists (02) 142. [7] Chunyan Yang, Yilin Xia. (2021). Viewing the Development of Zhejiang Bamboo Carvings from the Perspectives of Category, Subject and Technique. Proceedings of the 7th International Conference on Art, Design and Contemporary Education（ICADCE 2021）.Ed.. ATLANTIS PRESS 76-81. [8] Xiao Yingying, Chen Juan. (2018). Research on Innovative Design of “Intangible Cultural Heritage” Bamboo Products. 4th International Conference on Social Science and Contemporary Humanity Development (SSCHD 2018). ATLANTIS PRESS 72-75.

Terms and Expressions

bamboo muscle 竹肌 bamboo skin 竹皮 Shakuhachi 尺八 Shosoin 正仓院 full retention 全留 little retention 少留 more retention多留 literati-official class 士大夫阶层 mao bamboo 毛竹 harmony between man and nature 天人合一 bamboo filament 竹丝 bamboo joint 竹节

Questions

1.Which dynasty did the Liuqing-style bamboo carving originate from? 2. Which season of bamboo is most suitable for picking and carving? 3. How many steps do craftsmen usually take in Liuqing-style bamboo carving?

Answers

1.Tang Dynasty 2.winter 3.five

202270081668 谢茜敏 Xie Ximin 英语笔译(English translation)

Suzhou Pingtan

谢茜敏 Xie Ximin, 202270081668

Abstract

This essay introduces Suzhou Pingtan, an outstanding representative of the elegant and graceful traditional culture of Jiangnan-the area in the south of the Yangtze River. It originates from the characteristic tradition of Wu culture. As a comprehensive art, it is a combination of Pinghua and Tanci which are interesting, fine and strange , and has a long history of over four hundred years.

Key Words

Pingtan; development; Jiangnan culture

Overview

Pingtan originates in Suzhou,Jiangsu Province in east China during the Song Dynasty. It is a combination of Pinghua and Tanci, and sounds like the water in the south of the Yangtze River, which are interesting, fine and strange. In contrast, Pinghua is as open and surging as Taihu Lake, but Tanci is like a small river running through streets and alleys. Pingtan，Kunqu opera and Suzhou gardens are listed as the "three cultural wonders" of Suzhou.(Tang Lixing, professor in Shanghai Normal University)

1.Embryonic Stage (late Ming Dynasty-Mid-Qing Dynasty)

Pingtan, also known as storytelling, can be traced back to the Han Dynasty. The word "Pinghua" originats in the Song Dynasty and is another name for "lecturing on history". Yongle Canon in the Ming Dynasty has preserved the title of Pinghua book; The word "Tanci" was put forward by Tian Rucheng in the Ming Dynasty.(Luo Liwen.Pingtan in Suzhou.Crazy English)

2.Rising Period (Mid-Qing Dynasty-early Republic of China)

During the period of Qianlong Dynasty, the most famous Pingtan calligrapher was Wang Zhou Shi whose magnum opus was Legend of the Dragon. Qianlong liked appreciating his playing and singing, and founded the Guangyu Commune, the first institution in the history of Pingtan in 1776. A series of rules and regulations for Pingtan artists were established. In the middle and late Qing Dynasty, the former Four Famous Artists appeared in the history of Pingtan-Chen Yuqian (founder of Chen Diao), Yao Yuzhang, Yu Xiushan (founder of Yu Diao), Lu Ruiting and the latter Four Famous Artists - Ma Rufei (founder of Ma Diao), Yao Shizhang, Zhao Xiangzhou and Wang Shiquan - were all epoch-making persons. (Sun Yiting.Jiangnan Eelegance- The humanistic history of Suzhou Pingtan.2022.4)

3.Prosperity Period (Early Republic of China-1949)

In the late Qing Dynasty and the early Republic of China, the art of Pingtan not only flourished in Suzhou, but also reached to Shanghai. During the golden age of Pingtan from 1920s to 1940s, most famous Pingtan artists gathered in Shanghai. In the fierce artistic competition, the skills of Pingtan were increasingly improved, and various schools came into being. Famous Pinghua representative and their books: Heroes by Xu Jixiang, Golden Gun by Shi Xiufeng, the Three Kingdoms by Zhang Yushu and Tang Gengliang, Buddha Jih by Shen Xiaomei, Bao Gong by Gu Hongbo, etc. Famous Tanci representatives included Xia Hesheng (founder of "Xia Diao"), Zhou Yuquan (founder of "Zhou Diao"), Xu Yunzhi (founder of "Xu Diao"), Shen Jian 'an (founder of "Shen Diao"), Xue Xiaoqing (founder of "Xue Tune"), Zhu Yaoxiang (founder of "Xiang Diao"), Qi Lianfang (Founder of Qi Diao), Pearl Tower by Wei Hanying (Founder of New Wei Diao), Jiang Yuequan (founder of "Jiang Diao"), Zhang Jianting (founder of "Zhang Diao"), Yao Yinmei (founder of "Yao Diao"). (Liu Weiwei.Suzhou Pingtan:The soul Song of Jiangnan Culture)

4.Heyday (1949-1966)

After the founding of New China, under the guidance of the literary and art principle of "Let a hundred flowers bloom and bring forth the new through the old", Pingtan entered its heyday.The famous Pinghua artists Yang Zhenxin, Tang Junqi, Zhang Guoliang, Jin Shengbo, Wu Junyu, and the famous Tanci artists Zhu Xueqin (founder of "Qin Diao"), Xu Lixian (founder of "Li Diao"), Zhu Huizhen (successor of "Xinyu Diao") and Hou Lijun (Founder of "Hou Diao"), You Huiqiu (founder of "You Diao"), Xu Tianxiang (founder of "Xiang Diao"), Wang Yuexiang (founder of "Xiang Diao"), Xue Xiaofei (founder of "Xiao Fei Diao") created numerous works. New historical bibliographies included Butterfly Lovers, Qin Xianglian, and Lute Song. Modern bibliographies included Tracks in the Snowy Forest, Azalea Mountain, A Red Seed, Song of Youth. Under the initiative, Suzhou Pingtan School, the only secondary professional school in China that focuses on training Pingtan art talents, was formally established in 1962. （Hong Yu. Suzhou Pingtan in modern Shanghai under the background of mass media.2015）

5.Period of Revival (1978-now)

In 1977, With the proposal of Chen Yun and the consent of the Ministry of Culture, a symposium on Pingtan work was held in Hangzhou. In 1980, Suzhou Pingtan School resumed recruiting students, and made special contributions to the development of Pingtan and the inheritance of the Wu culture. A large number of full-length new works were created such as Jiulongkou, Pearl Case and Sai Jinhua; Medium-length works included The Orphan of Zhao, Ordinary Party Members and Thunderstorm. In 2004 China Suzhou Pingtan Museum, a professional museum with comprehensive functions including animation, artistic creation and performance, and digital informatization, was completed. （Mengxing Fu.Transformation and Inheritance of Suzhou Pingtan in the Context of Intangible Cultural Heritage.2018.）

Innovative development

First, the combination of Suzhou Pingtan and TV media greatly advances the current inheritance and development of Suzhou Pingtan. For example, the hit of the TV series "All is Well" has given Suzhou Pingtan a concentrated opportunity to export, which has attracted many audiences. In addition, repertoire innovation is also the key. We must keep up with the hot times, create in line with the current aesthetic, temperature, heat of the Pingtan repertoire.(Li Xuerui.The inheritance and development of Suzhou Pingtan from the perspective of media.2021.2)

Conclusion

Pingtan is closely related to the soil of Jiangnan as well as the unique life style, life concept and cultural concept of the people of Wu area. It is the aesthetic carrier of this life mode with its important historical, social, and cultural value.

References

[1]Luo Liwen.Pingtan in Suzhou.Crazy English.P44.2022.5 [2]Mengxing Fu.Transformation and Inheritance of Suzhou Pingtan in the Context of Intangible Cultural Heritage.[P]Proceedings of the 4th International Conference on Arts, Design and Contemporary Education.2018. [3]孙伊婷.江南雅韵-苏州评弹的人文历史.江苏文脉P8-11.2022.4 [4]刘巍巍.苏州评弹：江南文化的灵魂之歌.神州风物.2022.2 [5]洪煜. 大众媒介背景下近现代上海的苏州评弹［J].文艺研究，2015（9）：103-111. [6]黎学锐.传播媒介视角下苏州评弹的传承与发展.新传媒.2021.2

Terms and Expressions

Suzhou Pingtan 苏州评弹 Pinghua评话 Tanci弹词 Wu culture吴文化 Yongle Canon《永乐大典》 early Republic of China民国初年 Legend of the Dragon《游龙传》 playing and singing弹唱 the Guangyu Commune光裕社 the former Four Famous Artists前四名家 founder of Chen Diao陈调创始人 Heroes《英烈》 Golden Gun《金枪》 the Three Kingdoms《三国》 Buddha Jih《济公》 Bao Gong《包公》 Pearl Tower 《珍珠塔》New historical bibliographies新编历史书目 Butterfly Lovers《梁祝》 Qin Xianglian《秦香莲》 Lute Song《琵琶记》 Tracks in the Snowy Forest《林海雪原》 Azalea Mountain《杜鹃山》 A Red Seed《红色的种子》 Song of Youth《青春之歌》 Jiulongkou《九龙口》 Pearl Case 《明珠案》 Sai Jinhua《赛金花》 The Orphan of Zhao《赵氏孤儿》Ordinary Party Members 《普通党员》 Thunderstorm《雷雨》

Questions

1.When did Pingtan originate？ A.Tang Dynasty B.Song Dynasty C. Ming Dynasty D.Qing Dynasty 2.What are the two important parts of Suzhou Pingtan? A.Pinghua B.Tanci C.Performer 3.When was the period of revival of Suzhou Pingtan A.1978-now B.1949-1966 C.Early Republic of China-1949 4.When was Suzhou Pingtan School established? A.1949 B.1951 C.1962 D.1965

Answers

Correct answers are 1.B 2.AB 3.A 4.C

202270081669 谢州周 Xie Zhouzhou 英语笔译(English translation)

The development of Chinese hip-hop culture

谢州周Xie Zhouzhou，202270081669

Abstract

Hip-hop culture originated in the Blacktown of the United States and then swept the world. However, Chinese hip-hop culture has not been known to the public until recently. This paper aims to introduce the development of Chinese hip-hop culture from the underground to the public.

Key Words

China; Hip-hop culture; development

Introduction

In recent years, with the emergence of rap variety shows in China such as "THE RAP OF CHINA" and "THE RAP OF CHINAⅡ", China's hip-hop culture, which has long been excluded by the mainstream, has begun to gain public attention. More and more people, especially young people, begin to understand the cultural style of hip-hop. This paper aims to introduce the development of Chinese hip-hop culture so that everyone can have a certain understanding of Chinese hip-hop culture.

The introduction of Break dancing to China

The first step of introducing hip-hop culture into China was in the form of street dancing. In the 1980s, an American film called Break Dance was all the rage. In 1987, the film was released on the Chinese Mainland and caused a sensation among young people. For Chinese youth at the beginning of reform and opening up at that time, the unique dance movements and costumes in the film brought great shock. Hip-hop culture, which entered China in the form of break dancing, has continued to develop and its influence has gradually expanded. The "break dancing boys" with hot explosive heads, wearing break dancing gloves, bell bottoms, and carrying tape recorders can be seen everywhere in cities from the late 1980s to the early 1990s. The novel and unique dance movements and cool and eye-catching costume modeling in the film have brought a huge impact on the Chinese youth at the beginning of the reform and opening up. Hip-hop culture represented by break dancing has become popular in China.(Chang J,2005)

Rap music in China

Rap, as the core representative of hip-hop culture, developed later than break dancing. The earliest rap art in China can be traced back to the Zhou Dynasty.（Michael Eric Dyson,2004:64，66） At present, the earliest modern Chinese rap songs that can be traced are the rap clips from Lin Zixiang's album in 1982. Since then, AHLAM Diary, which was included in his 1986 album Favourite, has also been recognized as the earliest Chinese rap song in China. In the 1990s, American pure hip-hop music entered the golden age, and rap music was brought to the whole world. L.A.BOYZ, a group composed of Huang Licheng, Huang Lixing brothers and Lin Zhiwen who lived in the United States since childhood, officially launched Flash in Taiwan, China in 1992, bringing true American hip-hop music to Taiwan, China. The D.D. rhythm group established by Dai Bing and Tianbao in 1992 is known as the first rap group in mainland China. Their album Hot Beat includes a series of rap songs such as Do you want to dance, She's so nice, which represents that the Chinese pop music world has officially released rap albums. Since 2000, China's domestic political and economic situation has been relatively stable, and cultural exchanges between the mainland and Hong Kong and Taiwan have become increasingly frequent. Hong Kong and Taiwan pop music entered the mainland and gradually became the main force in Chinese music. Jay Chou, David Tao and others are Hong Kong and Taiwan singers who began to try hip-hop music in the early days. Jay Chou combines classical poetry and folk instruments in traditional Chinese culture with rap, bringing listeners an unprecedented new musical experience. Jay Chou's attempt at Chinese-style hip-hop rap became the first time for the localization of hip-hop culture and played an important role in the spread of hip-hop culture in China.（Yuan yue，2008）

The development of Chinese hip-hop culture in the underground period

Hip-hop culture has gradually become popular among certain groups in China. Some underground professional hip-hop groups have also been established. Guangzhou hip-hop groups first started to form the mainland's hip-hop culture. In 2001, Wang Bo cooperated with Burton, an American, to create the IronMic competition, which is also recognized as the beginning of underground hip-hop in China. The competition content is two people's freestyle, and both sides attack each other through rap, which is also called "Battle". Battle usually refers to the war of words between MCs and is also used to refer to the fighting dance in hip-hop dance. Underground Rappers participated in Battles mainly to gain fame in the group and get more supporters. Since then, several underground groups have emerged from all over China. However, the winners of these competitions have not been successfully popularized. No matter how popular they are in the underground hip-hop groups, they are difficult to get admitted by the mainstream culture.（Zhou Xiang, Sheng Jing 2012,127-128）The lyrics generally involve money, sex, and rude words, which basically cut off their way into the mainstream.（Kitwana B,2002）

From underground to mainstream

In 2017, it was portrayed as the "first year of hip-hop" in China by the mass media. This year, the Internet video company "iQiYi" launched its own music variety show "THE RAP OF CHINA", which pushed hip-pop music, which gained relatively little popularity in China to the peak of popularity. Hip-hop culture has gained the public's attention again, and successfully set off a burst of hip-hop craze. (Zhao Ying 2017,44-46) Before that, although hip-hop culture has been accepted and recognized by youth groups and specific groups, it has never been publicized in such a wide range by the mass media. According to the data on iQiyi's official website, as of September 7, 2017, "THE RAP OF CHINA" had a cumulative broadcast volume of 2.99 billion, with a score of 7.2 for Douban. On Sina Weibo, there have been 24.94 million relevant discussions and more than 5.8 billion readers. The mainstream media, such as Xinhua News Agency and Beijing News, have also reported on programs and hip-hop culture. "THE RAP OF CHINA" allowed the long-hidden hip-hop subculture in China to erupt, aggregates the elements in the Chinese local hip-hop chain, and incorporates the hip-hop subculture by means of capitalization. (Meng Yue 2017,109-110) Since then, various hip-hop programs have emerged one after another, and hip-hop culture has also gained public attention with these programs.

Conclusion

After decades, in China, hip-hop culture has gradually developed from a minority culture to a well-known and favorite culture. Nowadays, hip-hop culture is showing strong vitality in China and has created many excellent works in the process of localization.

References

[1]Chang, J. Can’t stop, won’t stop: A history of the Hip-hop generation［M］. New York: St. Martins Press. 2005.

[2]Michael Eric Dyson, "The Culture of Hip-Hop", in Mark Anthony Neal and Murray Forman (eds.), That's The Joint!: The Hip-Hop Studies Reader, New York: Routledge, 2004, p.64, p.66.

[3]Kitwana, B. The Hip-Hop Generation: Young Blacks and the Crisis in African American Culture ［M］. New York: BasicCivitas. 2002.

[4]袁越：《20 世纪最后的草根艺术：Hip Hop 文化发展史》，上海，上海人民出版社，2008年版

[5]周翔，盛静.Hip Hop 文化中国本土化的研究和探讨[J].三峡大学学报（人文社会科学版),2012,34(S1):127-128.

[6]赵婴.媒介融合时代小众文化的崛起之光——以《中国有嘻哈》为例[J].声屏世界,2017(11):44-46.

[7]孟越、从音乐选秀节目《中国有嘻哈》看我国嘻哈音乐的本土化演变[J].西部广播电视，2017(24):109-110.

Terms and Expressions

Hip-hop 嘻哈

Blacktown 黑人聚居区

Break dancing 霹雳舞

Rap 说唱

Freestyle 即兴说唱

IronMic 钢铁麦克 全中国第一个freestyle说唱比赛

MC Microphone Controller 说唱歌手

THE RAP OF CHINA 中国有嘻哈

Subculture 亚文化

Questions

1. Where did hip-hop culture originate？ A.United States B.United Kingdom C.China D.Russia

2. The earliest rap art in China can be traced back to which period？ A. Xia Dynasty B.Zhou Dynasty C.Tang Dynasty D.Ming Dynasty

3. Who combines classical poetry and folk instruments in traditional Chinese culture with rap? A.Jay Chou B.David Tao C.Jakson Wang D.Andy Lau

4. Which year is s portrayed as the "first year of hip-hop" in China? A.2015 B.2016 C.2017 D.2018

Answers

Correct answers are: 1. A 2. B 3. A 4. C