Courtier and Commoner in Ancient China

Selections from the History of the Former Han by Pan Ku

By: Burton Watson (Translator)

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Paperback | 22 May 1977 | Edition Number 1

At a Glance

Paperback
282 Pages

Age
22+

Dimensions(cm)
2.29 x 1.52 x 0.16

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Pan Ku's celebrated and influential History of the Former Han has been a model for dynastic history since its appearance in the first century A.D. The narrative is rich in detail and characterized by purity and economy of style. Covering the period from 206 B.C. to A.D. 23, the work consists of annals, chronological tables, treatises, and biographies, the last of which often include excepts from writings by the subjects of the biographies. Burton Watson has translated ten chapters from the biography section, including the lives of imperial princes, generals, officials, and some lesser figures: a court jester, wandering knights, court ladies, and concubines. All the chapters have been selected for their literary interest and their influence on Chinese literature and culture.

Industry Reviews

"The reader of this admirable translation will be able to appreciate why the "History of the Former Han," a great work of literature as well as of history, is, for the Chinese, what the work of Thucydides is for the Western world." -- "Times Literary Supplement"

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