On Xu Shangguo 's Study Of Li Shangyin

Li Shangyin is one of the most outstanding poets in the late Tang Dynasty, whosemasterpieces have passed down from generation to generation. Since Song Dynasty,in term of issues such as his lifetime, unsuccessful official career, involved in factionand the relationship with Linghu’s Family, many achievements tend to be traditionaland confined by the historical records in Xin Tang shu and Jiu Tang shu. As to hispoems, most of the works are deemed to be sad, beautiful and ambiguous. Besides,due to many allusions, writing skills and antitheses, his works are also thought to berhetorical. Xu Fuguan, a famous scholar, one of representatives of newConfucianism, held a subversive viewpoint in the article “Issues about Li Yishan’sJinSe poem” that Li Shangyin keep a close relationship with Linghu Tao, instead ofjoining in Li Deyu’s group. In addition, Xu pointed that Wang’s Family humiliatedLi Shangyin because of his ugliness and treachery so that affect the historicalevaluation about him in Xin Tang shu.Xu’s notion refuted those traditional viewpoints and make a re-evaluation in termof Li Shangyin’s lifetime and compositions.Although there are some problemsshould be discussed due to inadequate materials at that time, Xu’s achievements stillshould be admitted. In this dissertation, I will make a comment on his achievementsand give my own opinions, which base on detailed analyses and aggregate about LiShangyin’s works and his biography.It is full of frustration in Li Shangyin’s whole lifetime, especially in his careerand marriage. As a talent and sensitive poet, Li Shangyin made different choicesaccording to his own values ans principles. Instead of being involved in faction, heappreciated his tutor—Linghu Chu throughout his life. Although there are some riftsbetween Linghu Tao and Li Shangyin approximately from the late Hui Chang toearly Da Zhong, it still pose no threat to their friendship.What is overlooked is therelationship between Li Shangyin and Wang’s Family, in which Xu’s viewpoint isinspired. Li Shangyin married Wang Maoyuan’s daughter, and after six years, WangMaoyuan died. The relationship between Li Shangyin and Wang’s Family is notintimate, which can not be regarded as the reason that lead to Li Shangyin’smisfortune. Li Shangyin and his wife live in poverty but have deep affection.It is justa little far away from Wang Maoyuan’s anticipation. In this dissertation, in order to broaden background, I collect the relevant discussin Xu Fuguan’s works ang abstract viewpoints towards history of Tang poem, whichcan be used as the whole research foundation and may play a certain degree role inunderstanding Mr.Xu’s related achievements, Li Shangyin’s life and composingexperience.