Description
Book SynopsisIn just thirteen brief, accessible chapters, this engaging little book takes "absolute beginners" from the most basic questions about the language (e.g., what does a classical Chinese character look like?) to reading and understanding selections from classical Chinese philosophical texts and Tang dynasty poetry.
"
An outstanding introduction to reading classical Chinese. Van Norden does a wonderful job of clearly explaining the basics of classical Chinese, and he carefully takes the reader through beautifully chosen examples from the textual tradition. An invaluable work." —Michael Puett, Harvard University
Trade Review"Van Norden has pulled off the seemingly impossible. With his direction, a serious student could make real headway in learning classical Chinese—while learning a great deal about early Chinese thought as well."
—Robert E. Hegel, Washington University in St. Louis
"For most people, learning Classical Chinese is a daunting task, but for those who are fortunate enough to begin with Van Norden's intelligently written and wittily designed Guide, it is far easier and, dare I say, much more fun than one might have thought."
—Victor H. Mair, University of Pennsylvania
"
Classical Chinese for Everyone is great! Even if you don't want to learn classical Chinese, it is very philosophically interesting on the topic of how language affects thought. It is a corrective to Orientalist errors, and it is entertaining!"
—Eric Kaplan, Emmy-winning writer and producer of
Futurama, The Simpsons, and
The Big Bang Theory"This is a book for anyone who would like to learn a bit of Classical Chinese. . . . If you, or one of your students, or someone on your holiday gift list are interested in a career as a Sinologist, or would like to learn just enough Classical Chinese to say you know a bit, or just like learning interesting things from a good teacher you should get this book.
It is by far the most fun language textbook I have ever read."
—Alan Baulmer, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, from a review on the
Frog in a Well blog
