Abstract
The literary theories during the Six Dynasties often compared writers to "craftsmen", who were proficient in handicraft. Referring to the well developed art theory during this period, the connotation of "craftsman" can be considered in four dimensions: (1) a close adherence to the norm of literary styles, (2) an emphasis on language skills, (3) a balance between expressions of literary talents and emotions, and (4) a combination of conformance to rules and spirit of change. The theory of literary "craftsmanship" not only demonstrated an emphasis on writing techniques, but also disclosed its interactions with the lyrical and aesthetic functions of literature. In this way, it blurred the boundary between creations of literature and art and reflected a blending of the humanistic spirit of intellectuals and the technical spirit of craftsmen. Therefore, the theory of literary "craftsmanship" was a widely used one with far reaching impact and profound meanings.
First Page
46
Last Page
55
Recommended Citation
Yang, Dongxiao. 2020. "On the Theory of Literary "Craftsmanship" during the Six Dynasties." Theoretical Studies in Literature and Art 40, (3): pp.46-55. https://tsla.researchcommons.org/journal/vol40/iss3/14
