Regular Script

Definition

Regular Script, known as 'Kaishu' in Chinese, is a standardized style of Chinese calligraphy that emerged during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE) and became the most commonly used script in modern Chinese writing. This style is characterized by its clear and structured strokes, making it highly legible and widely adopted for official documents, books, and everyday writing. Its development reflects the evolution of Chinese writing systems, the artistic expression of calligraphy, and the influence of renowned calligraphers who mastered and popularized this style.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Regular Script became the dominant style of Chinese writing during the Tang Dynasty and has remained the standard form used in modern times.
2. The characters in Regular Script are generally composed of distinct strokes that follow a specific order, promoting clarity and readability.
3. Regular Script serves as a foundation for learning other styles of Chinese calligraphy, as it emphasizes proper stroke techniques and character structure.
4. Many famous calligraphers, such as Yan Zhenqing and Liu Gongquan, made significant contributions to the development and refinement of Regular Script.
5. The regularization of script during the Tang Dynasty was crucial in promoting literacy and facilitating communication across the vast Chinese empire.

Review Questions

• How did Regular Script evolve from earlier forms of Chinese writing, and what were its defining characteristics?
  • Regular Script evolved from earlier writing styles like Seal Script and Clerical Script, with its defining characteristics being structured strokes and clear character formation. This evolution allowed for better legibility in written documents. It was standardized during the Tang Dynasty, which contributed to its widespread adoption in various contexts, including official documentation and literature.
• Discuss how Regular Script reflects the cultural values of the Tang Dynasty and its impact on future generations of calligraphers.
  • Regular Script reflects the cultural values of the Tang Dynasty by emphasizing clarity, order, and aesthetic beauty in written language. This era was known for its artistic achievements, and Regular Script became a medium through which these values were expressed. Its influence on future generations is profound; many calligraphers continue to study and practice this style as a foundation for their own artistic expression.
• Evaluate the significance of Regular Script in shaping modern Chinese literacy and communication practices across different contexts.
  • Regular Script plays a crucial role in shaping modern Chinese literacy by providing a standardized form that is universally understood among Chinese speakers. Its clear and structured nature facilitates communication in educational settings, government documentation, and daily interactions. Additionally, Regular Script's continued prominence underscores its importance in preserving cultural heritage while adapting to contemporary needs.

Related terms

Seal Script: An ancient form of Chinese calligraphy used primarily during the Qin Dynasty, known for its intricate and decorative characters.

Cursive Script: A more fluid and expressive style of calligraphy that allows for faster writing, often with less emphasis on structure.

Wang Xizhi: A famous Chinese calligrapher from the Eastern Jin Dynasty, known for his mastery of various scripts, including Regular Script.