Wenxin Diaolong (Literary Mind and the Carving of Dragons)

The Wenxin Diaolong (Literary Mind and the Carving of Dragons) is a groundbreaking Chinese literary theory book by Han Yu from the 8th century. It systematically analyzes Chinese poetry and prose, emphasizing the importance of emotional expression, authenticity, and the importance of moral integrity in literature. Han Yu promoted the idea that literature should serve moral and philosophical purposes, encouraging writers to reflect true feelings and natural beauty. This work significantly influenced Chinese literary criticism, shaping the values of sincerity, moral purpose, and artistic craftsmanship in Chinese literature for centuries.