| The thesis entitled "Critique on the Imagery in the Pastoral Poetry of Xin Qi Ji", mainly explores the pastoral imageries depicted in Xin Qi Ji's 'Ci Poetry'. This literary research includes a comprehensive study of the Song Dynasty poet's compositions through the perspective and theory of modern poetry.The thesis consists of five sections.The introduction focuses on the various concepts of imagery found in both the classical Chinese and western contemporary poetry. It then further examines Xin Qi Ji's pastoral imageries from the aspect of modern poetical theories.The first chapter, "The Life of Xin Qi Ji", details the life of the poet and how his compositions have evolved throughout the different phases of his life. In particular, this chapter emphasizes on the period after he has been forced to resign from his official post to lead a life of seclusion in the countryside. This is also the time when most of his beautiful pastoral works were largely produced.The second chapter, "Imageries in Xin Qi Ji's Pastoral Poetry", provides an analysis to the three different approaches in which the poet demonstrates the artistry of imagery, mainly to represent ideas, objects or sceneries. An in-depth study of imagery reflected in his works further affirms his mastery of the subject.The third chapter, "The Aesthetics of Imagery in Xin Qi Ji's Pastoral Poetry", is based primarily on the appreciation of the poet's representative works. The thesis will then conclude with a discussion on the influence of his pastoral literature and his eminent stature in the realm of Chinese poetry. |
