Vernacular language

Definition

Vernacular language refers to the native language or dialect spoken by the ordinary people in a specific region, often contrasted with formal or literary languages. In the context of a declining imperial China, the shift towards vernacular language signified a move away from classical Chinese, which was primarily used in literature and formal writing, towards a more accessible form that reflected the everyday speech of the people. This transformation played a crucial role in democratizing literature and making it more relatable to the masses.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The adoption of vernacular language in literature began in earnest during the late Qing dynasty as writers sought to connect with a broader audience.
2. Authors like Lu Xun played a pivotal role in popularizing vernacular language, leading to a shift in how stories were told and who could engage with them.
3. Vernacular literature often tackled themes of social injustice, everyday life, and personal struggle, contrasting sharply with the lofty themes of classical works.
4. The use of vernacular language marked a cultural shift that helped lay the foundation for modern Chinese literature, making it more reflective of contemporary society.
5. This shift was also tied to nationalism, as writers aimed to create a distinct Chinese literary identity that resonated with the experiences and voices of common people.

Review Questions

• How did the decline of imperial China influence the transition from classical Chinese to vernacular language in literature?
  • The decline of imperial China created an environment ripe for change, as traditional structures began to weaken. Writers sought ways to express new ideas that resonated with common people, leading to a shift from classical Chinese—seen as elitist and inaccessible—to vernacular language. This transition allowed literature to become more inclusive, reflecting everyday experiences and concerns while democratizing access to literary culture.
• Discuss the impact of the May Fourth Movement on the use of vernacular language in Chinese literature.
  • The May Fourth Movement had a profound impact on the use of vernacular language as it emphasized cultural and intellectual reform. This movement championed the adoption of vernacular forms in literature as a means to challenge traditional norms and make literature more relatable to ordinary people. As writers embraced this change, they not only transformed literary styles but also contributed to broader social changes within China by addressing contemporary issues through accessible language.
• Evaluate how the embrace of vernacular language contributed to a new literary identity in modern China.
  • The embrace of vernacular language played a crucial role in forging a new literary identity for modern China by prioritizing accessibility and relevance over tradition. Writers who adopted vernacular styles were able to connect more deeply with their audiences by addressing real-life experiences and societal issues. This not only helped redefine literature as a medium for expression and change but also fostered a sense of national identity that was grounded in the lived realities of everyday people, marking a significant departure from the elitist conventions of classical literature.

Related terms

Classical Chinese: The traditional written form of Chinese used in historical texts, poetry, and formal literature, characterized by its complexity and limited accessibility to the general population.

May Fourth Movement: A cultural and intellectual movement in the early 20th century that advocated for the use of vernacular language in literature and promoted modern ideas, reflecting a broader push for social and political reform.

Literary Reform: The effort during the late Qing dynasty and early Republic of China to modernize literature by encouraging writers to adopt vernacular language and address contemporary social issues.