First reference book on classical Taiwan literature released

BY ELIZABETH HSU, CENTRAL NEWS AGENCY/TAIWAN NEWS

National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) in southern Taiwan introduced Monday the world's first reference book on literature in Taiwan, titled "Chronology of Classical Literature in Taiwan: The Ming and Qing Dynasties." The 800-page book was published last November after seven years of work by the two NCKU professors, Shih Yi-lin and Liao Mei-yu, and 27 researchers.

It traces the development of classical literature in Taiwan from 1651-1895 under five headings -- "writers events, " "literary and education events, " "significant events in Taiwan, " "significant events in the Qing Dynasty" and "significant events in the world." In a report on the NCKU Web site, Shih said that the development of classical literature in Taiwan should have a place in history and should be examined within the context of significant events of the time to understand the meaning and value of the literati, works and literary activities during specific periods. >>MORE