Encountering In Contemplation On Nature: A Comparative Study On Tao Yuanming And Thoreau's Conception Of Nature

From the perspective of ecological criticism, the paper analyzes and discusses conception of nature of Tao Yuanming and Thoreau who came from different countries and lived at different times with different writing styles in the parallel research field of comparative literature. The paper is made up of the following parts:â… . Contemplating and singing for natural beauty.This is the first common ground of natural aesthetic concepts of Tao Yuanming and Thoreau, however, there are some differences among these similarities. A deep understanding of their conception of nature will be obtained from analyzing these similarities and differences.â…¡. Nature: a great living existence uncontrolled by human being's subjective will.This is the second common ground of natural aesthetic conceptsof Tao Yuanming and Thoreau, which includes three aspects as follows:i. Nature is a kind of independent existence, which has its own laws.ii. Man is an integral part of nature, closely connected with each other.iii. Nature can edify human being's soul and improve their morality.â…¢. The integration of nature and man.This is the third common ground of natural aesthetic conceptsof Tao Yuanming and Thoreau, which is also the most meaningful part of their conception of nature to harmonious ecological construction nowadays. They both depicted the moving pictures of "the integration of nature and man" poetically in their works, expressing their commendation and advocating "returning to nature" along with their practice.â…£. The differences among the similarities of their conception of nature.Apart from the similar aspects, Tao Yuanming and Thoreau have some different ideas in conception of nature, which are primarily found in the following two elements: dissimilar civilization forms and different traditional cultures. Tao Yuanming inherited traditional Chinese Taoism while Thoreau based on transcendentalism.â…¤. Significance of Tao Yuanming and Thoreau's conception of nature.The conception of nature of Tao Yuanming and Thoreau can settle the contradiction between human being and nature in modern society, helping people dwell on the land poetically. Furthermore, their pursuit of a simple life exteriorly but a meaningful life interiorly can inspire modern people to return to nature and obtain freedom of internal spirit again.