Description
Book SynopsisThis study explores the life and political milieu of Shifu, a central figure in Republican China. Born in 1884, Shifu was brought down in 1915 by overwork, poverty, and tuberculosis. Yet during that short span, he became the most influential anarchist of his time.
Trade ReviewFascinating. . . . Dying early, Shifu never faced the choice of those colleagues who lived on, most of whom eventually had to choose sides between the Guomingdang and the Chinese Communist Party. Because of his early death, his ideas and his reputation have come down to us relatively unsullied, although somewhat ignored. This book provides a valuable service in reacquainting many with Shifu's life and putting his ideas in perspective. -- Lee Feigon, Colby College * American Historical Review *
This book eminently deserves reading as an important source for our understanding of Chinese anarchism and early socialism in China. It explores in considerable detail the human dimension as well as the depth of thought of the historical figures with whom it is concerned. In doing so, it assists us to appreciate the complex but uniterrupted search for wholeness of spirit in Chinese culture. -- Yasuko Shin-Nakagawa, Australian National University * Journal of Asian Studies *
Edward Krebs . . . has added a lively and highly readable biography of Shifu (1884-1915) to the growing literature on Chinese anarchism. . . . Its theses are well argued and supported. The writing is clear, elegant, and from the heart. . . . Krebs achieves a fine balance between touching tribute and dispassionate evaluation of Shifu's strengths and weaknesses. -- Gregor Benton, University of Wales, Cardiff * China Quarterly *
Table of ContentsChapter 1 Daring to Die: A Life of Shifu Chapter 2 Anarchism in Europe and in China: Themes Reasserted and Themes Adapted Chapter 3 Assassination and Radical Ideology: Liu Sifu's Route to Anarchism Chapter 4 Liu's Prison Essays Chapter 5 Return to Assassination Chapter 6 Socialism Narrow and Broad: Shifu's Comrade-Rivals in the Early Republic Chapter 7 The New Beginning: Shifu Launches the Conscience Society at Guangzhou Chapter 8 Renewal at Shanghai: The Culmination of Shifu's Career Chapter 9 Shifu's Legacy: Anarchism in the New Culture Years Chapter 10 Shifting Ground, Slippery Footing: Anarchists versus Communists and Nationalists During the 1920s Chapter 11 Conclusion: Shifu, Whole-Souled Anarchist
