Cultural Revolution

Definition

The Cultural Revolution was a sociopolitical movement initiated by Mao Zedong in China from 1966 to 1976, aiming to preserve communist ideology by purging remnants of capitalist and traditional elements from Chinese society. This period profoundly impacted literature, art, and social structures, leading to a reevaluation of cultural values and expression in East Asia.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Cultural Revolution aimed to reinforce Mao's control over the Communist Party and eliminate opposition within China, leading to widespread persecution of intellectuals and dissidents.
2. Literature during the Cultural Revolution was heavily censored, with authors like Lu Xun becoming pivotal figures as their earlier works were revisited under new ideological scrutiny.
3. Many artists were encouraged to create revolutionary art that reflected socialist ideals rather than traditional forms, leading to a shift in artistic expression in East Asia.
4. The Cultural Revolution resulted in the closure of schools and universities, disrupting education and leading to a generation with limited academic opportunities.
5. The aftermath of the Cultural Revolution led to significant changes in Chinese society, including a move toward reform and opening up under Deng Xiaoping in the late 1970s.

Review Questions

• How did the Cultural Revolution impact the literary landscape in China during its duration?
  • The Cultural Revolution significantly altered the literary landscape in China as it imposed strict censorship and discouraged traditional forms of literature. Writers faced persecution if their works did not align with revolutionary ideals, which led to a focus on propaganda and ideological writings. Authors such as Lu Xun were revisited during this time, as their earlier critiques of society gained new relevance amidst the tumultuous political climate.
• In what ways did the Cultural Revolution challenge traditional cultural values and norms within Chinese society?
  • The Cultural Revolution sought to dismantle traditional cultural values through campaigns aimed at destroying the 'Four Olds'—old customs, old culture, old habits, and old ideas. This resulted in widespread societal upheaval where historical artifacts were destroyed, Confucian teachings were denounced, and traditional practices were replaced by revolutionary zeal. The emphasis on communist ideology reshaped social norms and challenged long-standing beliefs about family, education, and authority.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of the Cultural Revolution on contemporary Chinese literature and its representation of tradition versus modernity.
  • The Cultural Revolution's legacy continues to influence contemporary Chinese literature as authors navigate themes of tradition versus modernity. Many writers reflect on the traumatic experiences from this era while exploring how it has shaped current cultural identity. This tension manifests in narratives that grapple with historical trauma, allowing for a critical examination of past ideologies alongside emerging modern perspectives. The resulting literature often incorporates elements of magical realism or surrealism to address complex social issues while retaining echoes of traditional storytelling.

Related terms

Red Guards: A mass student-led paramilitary social movement mobilized during the Cultural Revolution, tasked with promoting Maoist ideology and targeting perceived bourgeois elements.

Little Red Book: A book of quotations from Mao Zedong that became a symbol of the Cultural Revolution, serving as a guide for revolutionary thought and action.

Four Olds: A term referring to old customs, old culture, old habits, and old ideas that the Cultural Revolution sought to eliminate in favor of new socialist values.