A Study On The "Hou" Category Of Ancient Chinese Literary Theory

In the category of ancient Chinese literary theory, the "Hou" is a complex and important category which has not been fully developed. The fact that it is often regarded as a small supporting role in the group does not prevent the "Hou" from its splendid blossoming. As the unique aesthetic category in the ancient Chinese literary theory revealing the distinctive national aesthetic characteristics and carrying strong creation complex of literary intellectuals, it is the theoretical fruit which naturally formed in the aesthetic perception, creative practice and appreciation experience of ancient Chinese.Therefore, this thesis takes"Hou"as the research object by probing into the multiple aesthetic connotations of "Hou" in the literary theory. In this thesis, the first chapter gives an overall introduction of the implications of "Hou" combining the generation and application of "Hou". And then the process of evolution of the scope of’Hou"is systematically analyzed via the historic and logical method in chapter two. The third chapter focuses on the analysis of "Hou"from various dimensionalities of the literary theory, namely, the multiple aesthetic connotations and functions in the requirements of self-cultivation for literary intellectuals, the aesthetic style of literary works, the aesthetic principles of literary creation and the criteria of literary appreciation, respectively. The chapter four is a comprehensive discussion of the values and significance of "Hou"as a literary category, which not merely explores its unique status and values in ancient literary theory, but also the enlightening significance towards the creation and criticism of contemporary literature and art.