The Poetic Function of Chinese Characters: A Case Study of Hanzi

Join us in person for a fascinating dive into the magic of Hanzi – those beautiful Chinese characters that do way more than just convey meaning. Discover their poetic side and how these characters tell stories beyond words. Perfect for language lovers and curious minds alike. Don't miss out on this unique chance to see Chinese characters in a whole new light!

This lecture applies Roman Jakobson's concept of the poetic function of language to Chinese characters (Hanzi), highlighting how meaning is shaped not only by content but also by form.

The poetic function of Chinese writing is most evident in its aesthetic dimension, which enables it to go beyond a purely linguistic tool and become a medium of cultural memory and artistic expression. From calligraphy and wordplay to inscriptions in landscapes, paper-cutting, and ground calligraphy, Hanzi demonstrate rich and diverse forms of poetic expression.

This distinctive feature of Chinese writing not only reflects the depth of Chinese culture, but also offers valuable insights into the relationship between language, thought, and culture. it further provides important perspectives on learner motivation in Chinese language education.

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Host or Publisher Confucius Institute at Newcastle University