Chinese Classical Poetry and Prose in World Literature

Abstract

Chinese classical poetry and prose, as the treasure of world literature, demonstrates the three dimensions of “world literature” put forward by David Damrosch in its cross-cultural dissemination and reception. This paper, grounded on the definition by Damrosch about “what is world literature”, clarifies the crucial role of Chinese classical poetry and prose in world literature through three key aspects: its influence in East Asian civilizations, its translations in English-speaking world, and its translations in Francophone world. The paper shows that Chinese classical poetry and prose is not only an essential component of the world literary system but also a quintessential model for cross-civilizational dialogue.