A History of the Qin and Han Dynasties (3-Book Set)

Qin and Han History is the second of Mr. Lu Simian's four histories of individual dynasties. Written around the turn of the 1930s and 1940s, it was first published in 1947. Since then, it has been reprinted many times and has become a classic of modern scholarship on the Qin and Han periods.

Following the format of History of the Pre-Qin Period, the book is divided into two parts. The first half is a political history, arranged chronologically by historical events (Volumes 1 and 2); the second half is a cultural history (Volume 3), organized by subject. The political history is coherent and incisive, clearly presenting the development of China during the Qin and Han periods.

Mr. Lu Simian developed a distinctive approach to the study of Chinese history and offered original insights. His research into Qin and Han society and politics is particularly penetrating. He treats the Qin and Han periods as a watershed in the great transformations of Chinese history and a pivotal point in China's social revolution. His arguments are especially compelling. His assessments of the Qin and Han emperors are remarkably perceptive and accord closely with human nature.

This edition incorporates editorial work from several versions of the text. It converts the original traditional Chinese text, printed vertically, into simplified Chinese printed horizontally, while retaining the double-line interlinear notes (Mr. Lu Simian considered double-line interlinear notes to be "the finest format" in Chinese books). It not only corrects errors in the original but also revises passages that were inadequately edited in other editions.

Mr. Lu's historical accounts are solid and precise. He clearly explains the course of events, their causes and consequences, and offers original, penetrating insights. This is a classic work in modern Chinese scholarship. Whether or not you are a history enthusiast, you can understand it and gain a great deal from reading it.