Yongzhen Relegate Literati Prose Study

The Middle Tang Dynasty is the turning point in Chinese Feudalistic Society. From this period, Tang Dynasty is on the wane in power. In the field of philosophy, there is a tendency of combination of Confucianism and Buddhism. Poem gradually loses its prestige whereas prose and novel are experiencing great development. Ye Xie, a famous scholar in Qing Dynasty, once claimed, "The Middle Tang Dynasty is not only the middle of the Tang Dynasty but also the middle of the whole Chinese history". The thesis attempts to analyze the prose of this critical period.The thesis could be divided into four parts:Chapter One presents the social background of the Middle Tang Dynasty. Wang Shuwen, Wang Pi and "Eight Ministers of War" advocate the dramatic reform with the support of Emperor Taizong. However, the reform fails for the resistance and obstacle from the opponents. The members of "Yong Zhen Party" are either killed or demoted.Chapter Two summarizes the claim "literature for Tao" proposed by Yong Zhen Party. Though they hold different views on relationship between "literature" and "Tao", the claim "literature for Tao" greatly influences the movement of the ancient Chinese prose.Chapter Three discusses the literary achievement of Yong Zhen Party and its significant status in the literary field as well. It points out that Liu Zongyuan, Liu Yuxi, Lv Wen and other scholars are important in Chinese history of literature and should never be neglected.Chapter Four focuses on the spirit of Yong Zhen Party which is reflected in their persistent pursuing for their goal and faith and the great and sincere friendship between them in the difficulty situations.