Research on the interpretation and evolution of the book of songs from the perspective of historical annotations

Abstract

As a classic text within the National Style section, the Book of Songs depicts a simple artistic conception utilizing concise words and vivid metaphors. Its connotative interpretation demonstrates multiple evolving characteristics alongside the broader development of historical eras. Based on the annotations of the three classics—Mao Shizheng, Shijizhuan, and the original Book of Songs—this paper systematically combs through the diverse interpretations provided by prominent scholars such as Kong Yingda, Zheng Xuan, Mao Heng, Zhu Xi, and Fang Yurun. By combining the social, political, and cultural backgrounds of the Western Han, Song, and Qing Dynasties, this research analyzes the underlying causes of the differences in annotation interpretations. Furthermore, it returns to the text itself to explore the original connotation of the Book of Songs. The study reveals that the interpretation of this classic text throughout past dynasties was deeply influenced by the prevailing ideology and culture of each respective era. From the Dehua theory of the empress in the Western Han Dynasty, to the ethical interpretation from the perspective of Neo-Confucianism in the Song Dynasty, and finally to the textual return and multiple interpretations in the Qing Dynasty, this evolution reflects the epochal nature of literary interpretation and highlights the rich interpretive space inherent in traditional texts. Ultimately, the original text was primarily a folk song celebrating weddings in the Western Zhou Dynasty, vividly displaying the social conditions and simple folk customs of that time, serving as a true portrayal of Zhou Dynasty life.