The Sublation of Literature and Philosophy in the Zhuangzi

A New Mode of Transcultural Hermeneutics

Abstract

In literature, philosophical themes are often explored, introducing new methods for an in-depth representation of problems related to existence, moral dilemmas, and the complexity of human nature. Authors use structures, characters, and symbolism to convey and explore philosophical ideas, often creating a rich interaction between the two fields. Philosophy itself can be expressed in literary forms through dialogues, essays, and philosophical fiction. Such literary expression of philosophy can enhance understanding, making abstract concepts more comprehensible.

The intertwining of philosophy and literature, poetics, and analysis is notably evident in the works of the ancient Chinese thinker Zhuangzi. This article attempts to present a new form of transcultural hermeneutics through dialectical interaction and constructive mutual sublation of literary-philosophical elements in his eponymous work, drawing from Gadamer’s idea of the fusion of horizons, which the author further develops or transforms into a non-conceptual method of understanding and interpretation, as expressed in the process of merging aesthetic spheres (or jingjie ronghe 境界融合).