Title of Paper: "The Dilemma of Choice: The Notion of Self and the Theme of (In)Tolerance in Modern Chinese Literature"

 

Presenter: Terry Siu-han Yip

 

 

Abstract:

    The pre-modern Chinese concept of the self has been primarily a relational role-self defined by socio-familial relationships. It was not until the early twentieth century with the introduction of Western cultures and ideologies into China that this Confucian notion of self came under scrutiny and challenge.

    A close look at the nature of conflicts confronted by young intellectuals of the time and the moral dilemmas faced by the younger generation as treated in the writings of Su Manshu, Mao Dun, Tian Han and/or Ba Jin clearly reveals the debate over tolerance and/or intolerance to change and modernization in the Chinese society. Through the study of the theme of (in)tolerance, with special emphasis on those young intellectuals caught in the currents of socio-political change and the moral dilemmas experienced, one may come to a better understanding of the tension between tradition and modernity, as well as the interplay between individualism and collectivism, and between conformity and non-conformity.