Abstract
The Xian Liang Examination (賢良科) was a significant method for selecting talents in ancient China. It was first recorded in the second year of Emperor Wen of Han (漢文帝, BC178) and continued to be documented until the first year of Emperor Yongzheng of Qing (雍正帝, 1723). Such a long duration is quite rare in the history of the Chinese imperial examination system. Notably, this examination held a prestigious status during the Han and Tang dynasties and was highly esteemed by contemporaries. Previous research has primarily focused on its institutional evolution, which does not fully explain its enduring presence. To address this gap, this dissertation analyzes the texts associated with the Xian Liang Examination to elucidate its longevity and prominence. Additionally, the study examines three key aspects: the stylistic features of the examination texts, the thematic content, and their connection to the political context.Chapter 2 explores the stylistic characteristics and evolution of the examination texts. While the overall structure remained consistent during the Han and Tang dynasties, notable differences in expression emerged over time. Prior to Emperor Dezong of Tang (唐德宗), including the entire Han Dynasty, there was considerable diversity in expression: question setters employed both simple and elaborate writing styles, and candidates varied in their use of quotations. From Emperor Dezong's reign onward, a more uniform style developed, characterized by increased length and complex rhetoric at the beginning and end of the texts—two new stylistic innovations.
Chapter 3 categorizes the examination topics into four types and identifies two value orientations. The topics include "interpreting classics" "building an ideal society" "understanding and responding to disasters" and "addressing practical governance issues". The two value orientations are "praising the saints" (頌聖) and "exposing shortcomings" (揭弊). In the early periods of these dynasties, texts primarily focused on interpreting classics and constructing an ideal society, with candidates often praising the monarch's achievements and rarely critiquing political issues. In the later periods, the focus shifted to more politically relevant issues, with texts adopting a critical tone towards the monarch. This shift reflects the contrasting political climates: early dynastic rulers often enjoyed stability, while later rulers faced significant internal and external challenges.
Chapter 4 extends the discussion from Chapter 3, exploring the close connection between the examination and real politics. In two specific cases, the essays of Xian Liang Examination were directly applied to intense political struggles. In the first case, before the third year of Emperor Cheng of Han (漢成帝, BC30), Wang Feng (王鳳) faced unfavorable public opinion due to disasters. Following an earthquake and solar eclipse, he was challenged by court opposition. Gu Yong (谷永) actively participated in the examination to seek promotion and blamed Empress Xu (許皇后) in his essay. Du Qin (杜欽), an ally of Wang Feng, adopted a similar strategy, and together they resolved the crisis. In the second case, during the second year of Dahe (大和二年, 828), Liu Fen (劉蕡) warned Emperor Wenzong of Tang (唐文宗) about the dangers of eunuch interference in politics, while also alluding to Prime Ministers Wei Chuhou (韋處厚) and Wang Bo (王播) in his writings. To consolidate their positions and alliances, Wei Chuhou and Wang Bo likely suppressed public opinion to maintain the existing power structure.
The evolution of the Xian Liang Examination during the Han and Tang dynasties focused on literary and stylistic features, with relatively stable discussion topics. This consistency reflects adherence to certain writing traditions across different periods and explains the examination's long-lasting presence. Simultaneously, the examination maintained a close connection with real politics. Monarchs often used it as a channel to receive governance advice, while candidates leveraged it to influence power structures. This mutual interest underscores the examination's high regard during its time.
| Date of Award | 14 Feb 2025 |
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| Original language | Chinese (Traditional) |
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| Supervisor | Chia Hui LU (Supervisor) |