Book dossier

Adapting Western Classics for the Chinese Stage

by Shouhua Qi

"Adapting Western Classics for the Chinese Stage presents a comprehensive study of transnational, transcultural, and translingual adaptations of Western classics, from the turn of the twentieth century to present-day China in the age of globalisation. Supported by a wide range of in-depth research, this book: - Examines the complex dynamics between texts, both dramatic and sociohistorical; contexts, both domestic and international; and intertexts, Western classics and their Chinese re-interpretations in huaju and/or traditional Chinese xiqu; - Contemplates Chinese adaptations of a range of Western dramatic works, including Greek, English, Russian and French; - Presents case studies of key Chinese adaptation endeavours, including the 1907 adaptation of Uncle Tom's Cabin by the Spring Willow Society and the 1990 adaptation of Hamlet by Lin Zhaohua; - Lays out a history of uneasy convergence of East and West, complicated by tensions between divergent socio-political forces and cultural proclivities. Drawing on disciplines and critical perspectives including theatre and adaptation studies, comparative literature, translation studies, reception theory, post-colonialism, and intertextuality, this book is key reading for students and researchers in any of these fields"--