Baihua

Definition

Baihua, meaning 'plain speech,' refers to the vernacular Chinese language that emerged in contrast to the classical literary language used in historical texts. This shift towards baihua marked a significant change in literature, as it allowed for more accessible and relatable writing that resonated with the general populace. The rise of baihua reflects broader social and cultural transformations, including increasing literacy rates and the desire for a national identity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The development of baihua gained momentum in the early 20th century, particularly during the May Fourth Movement, which emphasized the importance of modernizing Chinese culture.
2. Baihua played a crucial role in making literature more accessible to a wider audience, allowing people from various social backgrounds to engage with literary works.
3. Prominent authors like Lu Xun and Hu Shi were key figures in advocating for baihua, using it as a means to critique social issues and promote progressive ideas.
4. The shift to baihua also coincided with the rise of periodicals and newspapers, which often employed this vernacular language to reach everyday readers.
5. Baihua has since become the standard form of written Chinese, influencing contemporary literature and education across China.

Review Questions

• How did the emergence of baihua influence the accessibility of literature in early 20th-century China?
  • The emergence of baihua significantly increased the accessibility of literature in early 20th-century China by replacing the classical wenyan with a language that resonated with ordinary people. This allowed authors to communicate complex social issues and ideas in a way that was understandable to a wider audience. As a result, more people could engage with literature, leading to increased literacy rates and participation in cultural discourse.
• What role did key figures like Lu Xun play in promoting baihua, and how did this impact societal attitudes towards literature?
  • Key figures like Lu Xun played an instrumental role in promoting baihua as a vehicle for social critique and cultural reform. By using vernacular language in his works, Lu Xun challenged traditional literary forms and highlighted societal injustices. This advocacy not only shifted literary norms but also encouraged readers to question existing values and embrace new ideas about identity and modernity.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of adopting baihua as the standard form of written Chinese on contemporary literature and education.
  • Adopting baihua as the standard form of written Chinese has had profound long-term implications on contemporary literature and education. It has democratized access to written works, enabling authors from diverse backgrounds to contribute to literary culture. In education, baihua has facilitated learning for students, fostering greater engagement with reading and writing. Additionally, this transition has paved the way for innovative storytelling techniques that reflect modern Chinese society's complexities.

Related terms

wenyan: Wenyan is the classical written form of Chinese used in formal writing and literature prior to the rise of baihua, characterized by its complex vocabulary and grammar.

xiaoshuo: Xiaoshuo refers to the modern novel genre that became prominent during the late Qing dynasty and often utilized baihua, making stories more relatable to everyday readers.

New Culture Movement: The New Culture Movement was an intellectual revolution in early 20th-century China that advocated for cultural and literary reforms, including the promotion of baihua over classical Chinese.