Looking at Political, Societal, and Cultural Changes in 20th Century China Through Analysing Chinese Names

Abstract

This essay explores the complexities and subtleties behind traditional and twentieth century Chinese names. In Chinese culture, the process of name formation involves a careful consideration of immediate personal, societal and cultural contexts. Whilst highly individualistic on a micro level, when analysed on a macro level, Chinese names reveal telling trends that reflect the changing political, cultural and social landscapes of twentieth century China.