On Study Of Chinese Classical Fiction By American Sinologist Robert E. Hegel

For the study of Chinese classical fiction, both domestic and foreign scholars have made their contributions. The study of Chinese classical fiction in American sinology started late, but its research achievements have been remarkable. Robert E. Hegel is the famous sinologist in America today. Since he published the essay about the study of Romance of the Sui and the Tang in the 1970 s, he has made numerous achievements in this field. This essay is based on Hegel’s monographs and essays, trying to represent and comment on his fiction research.This essay is made up of five parts.Chapter one first presents the research situation of American sinology and American study of Chinese classical fiction. Then it moves on to the academic background and research achievements of Hegel, expecting to display his overall dynamic condition. The research status for Hegel at home and abroad follows closely. At last, this chapter sketches the purpose, significance, arrangement and methods of this essay.Chapter two tries to introduce and comment on Hegel’s interpretation of development and characteristics of Chinese classical fiction. For the development of Chinese classical fiction, Hegel doesn’t make a totally comprehensive list like other scholars. His summary is based on the mainline of changing fashions of Chinese vernacular fiction. For the characteristics of Chinese classical fiction, this essay discusses how Hegel adopts the method of case study to explore the ways of conveying meaning and distinguishable values presented in Chinese classical fiction.Chapter three is to elucidate how Hegel combines Chinese method with western method to study Chinese classical fiction by using textual research and interdisciplinary study. Hegel thinks the command and analysis of texts is a very basic effort. The method of textual research is embodied in his entire research process. Among his academic achievements, interdisciplinary study is his biggest contribution. During the development of American sinology, the emergence of interdisciplinary research is an academic renovation. Hegel’s research is in accordance with this trend.Chapter four explores the feature and significance of Hegel’s research. Overseas sinology is an important academic force for domestic scholars. Their research methods and problematic consciousness provide new ideas for our discussion of Chinese literature. For Chinese literary circle, understanding and learning from overseas sinology can help us form new ideas.Chapter five roughly sketches the structure of this essay, summarizing the inspirations from Hegel’s study of Chinese classical fiction.