Chinese Characters

Han Jiantang provides an accessible, illustrated introduction to the fascinating history and development of the written Chinese language.

Jiantang Han (Author)

9780521186605, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 9 March 2012

168 pages
23 x 15.6 x 0.9 cm, 0.3 kg

Han Jiantang provides an accessible, illustrated introduction to the fascinating history and development of the written Chinese language, from pictograms painted on rocks and pottery and ancient inscriptions to the refined art of calligraphy and the characters in use today. Chinese Characters will appeal to readers looking for an introduction to the rich but complex Chinese language and to all those interested in the relationship between language and culture.

1. The emergence of written language
2. The origin of Han characters
3. The evolution of forms of Han characters
4. The formation of Han characters
5. The profound mystery of Han characters
6. Chinese history narrated in Han characters
7. The art of Han characters.

Subject Areas: Lettering & calligraphy [WFU], Cultural studies [JFC], Asian history [HBJF], Linguistics [CF], Oriental art [ACBP]