A very RARE and beautiful and interesting book....Herbert Allen Giles's "A History of Chinese Literature" is a monumental work that offers readers a comprehensive exploration of China's rich literary heritage. From ancient classics to modern masterpieces, Giles guides readers on a captivating journey through the evolution of Chinese literature, providing valuable insights into the cultural, historical, and social context that shaped each literary epoch. The book covers a wide range of topics, from the classics of Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism, to the poetry, prose, and drama of various dynasties, and even the vernacular literature of more recent times. Giles’ meticulous research and insightful analysis bring these works to life, offering readers a deeper understanding of the rich and diverse literary tradition of China. Herbert Allen Giles (1845–1935) was a renowned Sinologist and scholar of Chinese literature and culture. Born in Oxford, England, Giles studied at Charterhouse School and then at Corpus Christi College, Oxford. He joined the British Consular Service in China in 1867 and spent much of his career in various cities across China, including Shanghai, Ningbo, and Beijing. During his time in China, Giles developed a deep fascination with the Chinese language and culture. He became proficient in Mandarin Chinese and dedicated himself to the study and translation of classical Chinese texts. Book in very good condition, insidelight stains but overall clean and complete, endpapers toned, externally overall very good for age. Scarce.