Historic China, and Other Sketches

In 'Historic China, and Other Sketches' by Herbert Allen Giles, readers are taken on a captivating journey through the history and culture of China. Giles, a distinguished sinologist, showcases his expertise through engaging storytelling and insightful analysis of various aspects of Chinese civilization. The book combines historical narratives with critical observations, offering a comprehensive look at China's past and its influence on the present. Written in a clear and accessible style, Giles' work serves as a valuable resource for both scholars and general readers interested in Chinese history and literature. Herbert Allen Giles, a renowned linguist and historian, draws from his vast knowledge of Chinese language and culture to write 'Historic China, and Other Sketches'. His deep admiration for Chinese civilization is evident in the meticulous research and thoughtful reflections present throughout the book. Giles' background in translating Chinese texts and studying ancient Chinese philosophy adds depth to his exploration of the country's rich heritage. I highly recommend 'Historic China, and Other Sketches' to anyone seeking a comprehensive and well-written introduction to the history and culture of China. Giles' expert commentary and engaging narrative make this book a must-read for those interested in gaining a deeper understanding of one of the world's oldest civilizations.

Herbert Allen Giles (1845–1935) was a distinguished British sinologist and linguist whose contributions to the field of Chinese studies remained substantial in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born at Oxford, Giles was educated at Charterhouse and graduated from Gonville and Caius College, Cambridge. In 1867, he entered the consular service in China, which marked the beginning of his extensive career in the Chinese Empire. One of Giles' most notable works, 'Historic China, and Other Sketches' (1882), provides insightful narratives capturing the essence of Chinese civilization and its history. In addition to being a prolific writer, including scholarly articles, Giles was renowned for his Chinese-English dictionary and is credited with developing the Wade-Giles Romanization system for Mandarin, extensively used in Anglophone countries until the adoption of Pinyin. His literary style often blended meticulous scholarship with an approachable narrative, which earned him the position of professor of Chinese at Cambridge University from 1897 to 1932. Giles' academic prowess was recognized by his election as a member of the Royal Asiatic Society, and he was also bestowed an honorary degree by Aberdeen University. His work has left a lasting imprint on sinology, providing a foundation for subsequent scholars in the field (Durant, 1954).