Relating details of Chinese history, anthropology and culture, the author shows how the Chinese characters evolved from early pictograms into the more calligraphic symbols we see today. Copious illustrations of archaeological artifacts and scenes from ancient life give the cultural context.
Kihoon Lee studied the history of character-writing in China based on the oldest extant records: troves of tortoise shells engraved with early symbols. Today he teaches Chinese language, and his enthusiasm shows in this volume where he introduces scholars and newcomers alike to the intriguing evolution that changed early symbols into the stylized characters used in China and neighboring countries.
Mr. Lee graduated from Yonsei University in Seoul and earned his master's degree at Beijing Language and Culture University in China. His thesis focused on the study of the historical relationship between China and Korea, drawing on a wealth of archeological artifacts.
A past President of Seoul's Chinese Teachers' Association, he is a member of the board providing test questions for the nation's Chinese Examinations. Mr. Lee has written many books in the areas of Chinese Education, Ancient Eastern History, and the Origin of the Chinese Culture. His work has received international praise by scholars and newspapers.
His aim in writing these books is to help the people of the world understand their common cultural aspects and to treasure our human heritage.
