Research Article
Reassessing the Historical Significance of Chung-kuk/Chung-kuo(Zhongguo) 中國 in East Asian Historiography – Featuring an Analysis of Hunmin chŏng'ŭm 訓民正音
Chun Jihoon*
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 1, February 2025
Pages:
1-12
Received:
30 November 2024
Accepted:
16 December 2024
Published:
9 January 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijla.20251301.11
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Abstract: The term chung-kuk/chung-kuo (zhongguo) 中國 was made corresponding to ‘China’ only in the (mid-)twentieth century. It was not until after the People’s Republic of China was set up in 1949 that zhongguo began to be used as a shorthand of the former, and the historicity of chung-kuk has yet to be clarified. One surviving record with its unequivocal reference to the term is Hunmin chŏng'ŭm ŏn-hae 訓民正音諺解 (Vernacular Annotation of Correct Sounds for Instructing the People) of 1459, published thirteen years after King Sejong’s 世宗 promulgation of Hunmin chŏng'ŭm. According to the Annotation, chung-kuk, as the "seat of government of the Emperor" [中듕國귁ᄋᆞᆫ皇ᅘᅪᇰ帝뎽겨신나라히니], “has been referred to in our daily expressions as "south of the River"” [우리나랏常썅談땀애江강南남이라ᄒᆞᄂᆞ니라]. The new phonetic system, Chŏng'ŭm 正音, was necessary for nationwide efficiency because the speech sounds of local dialects had all been different from those of the central district [國之語音異乎中國]. Thus chung-kuk, during King Sejong's reign, must mean the seat of central government of the Chosŏn 朝鮮 dynasty. Furthermore, the royal palaces reputedly ascribed to those of Chosŏn are north of the Han River (漢江) in the capital city of southern Korea, whereas the historical Western Capital (西京) and Eastern Capital (東京) are located south of the Yellow River (黃河) and the Wi/Wei River (渭水). Down into the early twentieth century, chung-kuk was still spoken of by Chosŏn independence activists against Japanese colonialism: in April 1932, Yun Bong Kil 尹奉吉, as a member of Han Patriotic Corps (韓人愛國團), mentioned "enemy forces invading chung-kuk" [中國을侵略하는敵]. Considering the context, chung-kuk herein referred to cannot be found anywhere in the present-day Korean peninsula, nor was it the same one as in Liang Ch'i-ch'ao’s 梁啓超 works. These issues have to be further examined to illuminate the authenticity of chung-kuk.
Abstract: The term chung-kuk/chung-kuo (zhongguo) 中國 was made corresponding to ‘China’ only in the (mid-)twentieth century. It was not until after the People’s Republic of China was set up in 1949 that zhongguo began to be used as a shorthand of the former, and the historicity of chung-kuk has yet to be clarified. One surviving record with its unequivocal re...
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Research Article
Integrating Theory and Practice in Music Education: Its Role in Enhancing Skills and Confidence of Conservatory Students
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 1, February 2025
Pages:
13-16
Received:
7 December 2024
Accepted:
23 December 2024
Published:
14 January 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijla.20251301.12
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: This study investigates the integration of music theory and practice in conservatory education, focusing on its impact on the performance skills, creativity, and confidence of music students. Music theory, as the foundation of understanding musical structures such as scales, chords, harmony, and rhythm, is often underemphasized in favor of instrumental training. This imbalance can hinder students’ ability to analyze, interpret, and create music effectively. Using qualitative interviews and a comprehensive analysis of the experiences of Tehran Conservatory students, the research demonstrates that the simultaneous teaching of theory and practice enhances students’ understanding of musical pieces and fosters greater creativity in improvisation and composition. Findings reveal that students who integrate music theory with practical training show improved performance skills and higher confidence in live and group settings. They are better equipped to analyze the structural elements of music, leading to more informed and expressive performances. The study also identifies key challenges, including limited time in curriculums, an overemphasis on instrumental skills, and a lack of awareness regarding the benefits of music theory. To address these challenges, the research proposes a restructured curriculum that balances theory and practice, incorporates modern technological tools like interactive apps and online platforms, and employs innovative teaching methods. These strategies can make music theory more engaging and applicable, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. The findings emphasize that an integrated approach to music education not only enhances students’ technical skills but also empowers them to approach music with creativity, confidence, and a deeper understanding.
Abstract: This study investigates the integration of music theory and practice in conservatory education, focusing on its impact on the performance skills, creativity, and confidence of music students. Music theory, as the foundation of understanding musical structures such as scales, chords, harmony, and rhythm, is often underemphasized in favor of instrume...
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