Abstract
Model Sayings, written by Yang Xiong as an imitation of The Analects, exhibits significant stylistic differences from The Analects in aspects such as title, external structure, internal form, and language. These differences reflect Yang Xiong's originality, as his work transforms and surpasses the standard quotation-based discourse. A structural analysis of Model Sayings reveals that the six rounds of hypothetical dialogues in the middle section of Qian Wenyan serve as its stylistic prototype. The question-and-answer format in the Model Sayings closely aligns with popular rhetorical forms of the time, and its stylistic attributes are more akin to these contemporary modes. Unique among the works of Han dynasty philosophers, Model Sayings stands as a compact anthology of categorically arranged rhetorical pearls. Yang Xiong's decision to compile Model Sayings in this format stems from his particular affinity for the question-and-answer and anthology styles of writing. In the study of ancient Chinese genres, it is crucial to consider the relationship between the author's subjective intent and the text's objective impact. Also should be taken into account is the ambiguity of genre boundaries, the accuracy of tracing literary origins, and the gradual evolution of textual forms.
Keywords
Yang Xiong, Model Sayings, rhetorical genre, literary genre
First Page
151
Last Page
159
Recommended Citation
Debo, Zhao. 2024. "Model Sayings: Quotation-Based Literary Schools and Rhetorical Techniques — A Discussion on the Principles and Methods of Genre Distinction in Ancient Chinese Writing." Theoretical Studies in Literature and Art 44, (5): pp.151-159. https://tsla.researchcommons.org/journal/vol44/iss5/15
