Social Sciences in China (Chinese Edition)

No. 11, 2024

Consensus and Divergence: The Division and Integration of Literature and History in 100 Years of Chinese Literary Studies

(Abstract)

Li Yi

The interplay of division and integration between literature and history is a distinctive and complex phenomenon in Chinese cultural history. It profoundly shapes the relationship between literary concepts and historical consciousness and influences the significance of literature in China. When literature and history are undivided, literary studies often draw on historical perspectives and methods, resulting in a phenomenon known as mutual verification, or dialogue between literature and history. Conversely, their division allows writers to assert individuality, breaking free from cultural homogeneity and enabling the renewal and evolution of literary concepts over the past century. Today, despite widespread consensus on the dialogue between literature and history, the orientations of literary and historical scholars diverge, even in “historicized” literary interpretations. Literary research uncovers the inner spirit of the historical phenomena described by writers. As structural mechanisms embedded in the Chinese cultural system, the division and integration of literature and history can provide deep support and resources for the development of culture and literature. Reflecting on their division and integration aids in both consensus-building and the development of an independent knowledge system for contemporary Chinese literary studies.