157) which he never did understand it himself. 
That evening, Huck decides that the duke and the king are frauds. However, he never [says] nothing, never [lets] on in order to keep peace, and ignores the issue. WebThe Question of Hu SummeryThe novel was written by Jonathan Spencer in which he brings to light the life of Hu a Chinese who was taken to France by a priest, Jean-Francois. Hucks situation, which exposes him to the heartless nature of society, is caused by the conniving actions of the Dauphin. WebJonathan Spences novel The Question of Hu covers mid-eighteenth century travels from China to the western world of a Jesuit missionary, Father Jean-Francois Foucquet, and a Chinese scribe, John Hu. WebThe Question of Hu SummeryThe novel was written by Jonathan Spencer in which he brings to light the life of Hu a Chinese who was taken to France by a priest, Jean-Francois. I'm not entirely sure what to make of this book. He was the keeper of the gate in the Catholic Church of Canton. 1 It weaves an intriguing narrative about a Chinese, John Hu, brought to the West in the 1720s by a Jesuit priest, Father Foucquet, in order to help edit and translate the eleven crates of Chinese texts Foucquet had acquired. WebA book Questions of Hu is a historical book written by Jonathan Spence, a British-American historian, who is specialized in Chinese History. Foucquet was in a major rush and didn't have time to fully evaluate Hu before he was hired. Within six months of their arrival in France, the priest is aching to be rid of the Chinese and scheming with nuncios, police lieutenants-general and bishops to help him become so. By the way, he shot a wild pig and take a pig to the hovel. Hus abrupt mood swing can be interpreted as a bi Their military strategy, equine mastery, and unique weaponry made them superior to nearly every adversary, making them fairly unstoppable. WebIn the book question of Hu, I learned that communication between two cultures and gets to experience many differences. Thich is one of the largest deficiencies in his character. It's been a few days since I've read it, and I don't think it left much of an impression on me. Spence provides both supporting and contradicting evidences for Hus insanity leaving us to evaluate and come up with a conclusion on our own. A strange little book about a priest (Father Foucquet) who brought a Chinese (Hu) man back with him to France from Canton in the early 18th century to help with his studies. One mother, Suyuan, imparts her knowledge on her daughter through stories. This priest's mission in life is to prove to the Papacy his theory that Chinese religion and philosophical tradition is all fundamentally Christian, and that their great texts are all revelations from the Christian God, now buried under layers of superstition and cultural accretion. I am just a businessman, not a poet. The tale of Hu opens in late December of 1721. Where in America, this would not be appropriate at all. A series of uncomfortable exchanges illustrate the challenge of being accepted into a new culture. The venture is misbegotten. While sailing through the mid-Atlantic Ocean Hu told Foucquet that his mind is filled, The question of Hu, by Jonathan D. Spence, is a book on the Chinese and European connection during the early 1700s. John Murray Publishing. It is the story of John Hu, a lowly but devout Chinese Catholic, who in 1722 accompanied a Jesuit missionary on a journey to France--a journey that ended with Hu's confinement in a lunatic asylum. William J. Duiker, Twentieth Century World History 4th Edition (Belmont, CA: Wadsworth Publishing, 2006), 79, Edwards, Paul. That changed this Ukrainian refugees destiny. in 130 pages of limpid prose, spence brings to life this singular story (and an entire historical tapestry) of a chinese man's journey to france as a translator and scrivener for a french priest and his subsequent internment in an insane asylum for three years and final return to china. (Ed.) Rodriguez is a first generation American, whos a son of a working class Mexican immigrant. Americans accepting a non-American into their society was unheard of at that time, however because Fong See became wealthy, he used that to his advantage. Summary Of The Question Of Hu By Jonathan D Spence, In The Question of Hu written by Jonathan D. Spence, there are many differences in culture found in the book between Chinese customs and Western Europe customs. This is an example. By saying this Chinese sentence in America, it taunted and made Jack embarrassed because Jack always thought he will not get accepted and his mother was one that is blocking his way to get recognized since, she made Jack different from peers. It's justsomething that happened. The historical novel portrays a story of two people, John Hu, and Jean-Franois Foucquet. John Hus place in history can be summed up by the first sentence in the preface of the story, Perhaps the most astonishing thing about Hu is that we know anything about him at all. (Spence xvii) The question of why we know so much about Hu is that there were more than fifty Chinese who went westward during the eighteenth century, three of which were jailed in Canton under vague charges and stayed under arrest for eleven more years. Simon and Schuster MacMillan, 1996., Walsh, B. WebA book Questions of Hu is a historical book written by Jonathan Spence, a British-American historian, who is specialized in Chinese History. Author of a thin book called Hunger of Memory, that summarized the memories of how he became Americanized, Rodriguez shares how he believes we all are blending and being fluid with individualism but unifying as Americans. And it is a windfall. Also, people in high-context cultures set the bar, Chiang Yees work was written in English and capitalised on the increased Western interest in China and the East at the beginning of the twentieth century. The development of ancient Rome can be attributed to many factors, from overcoming military opposition to dealing with religious conflicts. It's the early 18th century. This lively and elegant book by the acclaimed historian Jonathan D. Spence reconstructs an extraordinary episode in the early intercourse between Europe and China. Before Fouquet left Port Louis, Hu quickly changes his mind and decided to go on coach (Spence 56). Fong See would make trips to China to buy Chinese. Join our community book club. The interactions that occur consist of the cultural differences between Chinese and European customs. This was a book I read for a World Civilization class. For one, the priest who brought him doesn't really know what to do with him Also Hu behaves in ways that are hard to understand and don't fit in French society. He response to those charges is the major reason we have the story. Harrison also explores the negative impact of modernization on rural areas by recounting the economic and. Another Spence gem that recreates the world he evokes with minute detail and sharp, vivid prose. 826 Words; 4 Pages; The Question Of Hu Summary. facing the man who brought him. Living in the Hungarian Plains, Attila and the Huns controlled the Western and Eastern frontier of the Roman Empire. In such cultures people are expected to behave appropriately and respect others. John Perry, Michael Bratman, John Martin Fischer. While travelling, according to the priest, the behaviors Hu exhibited were 'Chinese madness' (Spencer 1989). This book didn't quite deliver for me. The excellence of The Question of Hu lies in its brevity and understatement. This book really pears nicely with one of my favorite books, "Shogun" which is about the English/Dutch trading in early Japan. Chang-Rae Lee, John Pomfret began his story Chinese Lessons as a third year Stanford student that felt extremely optimistic about gaining the opportunity to benefit from American political efforts to create friendly relations with China. This feeling of sympathy is the reason The Question of Hu was written in the first place, given that we know about Hu because there were rumors that Foucquet had mistreated Hu so Foucquet wrote letters to nobility and senior members in the Jesuit church. Twain is satirizing religion here. Hu believes that Foucquet holds a position of high-credibility and deserves much respect due to his beard that reaches to his waist and his very colorful attire. Lastly, Monkey has to deal with the fact that there is no position for him in the heavenly ranks. This culminated in Foucquet's decision to commit his assistant to an asylum, insisting that he's insane and needs to be locked up. Another lack of communication that led to a misconception is when Foucquet decided to pick Hu to travel with him back to the west, it was actually more of a decision that was made out of necessity because he couldnt find anyone to go with him. WebThe Question of Hu, by Jonathan D. Spence, is a beautifully written book, based on elegant scholarship. No scholar or bibliophile would fail to squirm at Spences descriptions of Foucquets possessiveness for his books, his ideas and, above all, his tranquillity. This story of a Chinese man's visit to Europe in the early 18th century is a really cool book on a few different levels. In the book, A Transnational History of a Chinese Family, by Haiming Liu, we learn about the Chang family rooted in Kaiping County, China, who unlike many typical Chinese families exemplified hard-work and strong cultural values allowing them to pursue an exceptional Chinese-American lifestyle. WebSample Summary Of Skill Statements Administrative General Rsums and Personal Statements for Health Professionals - Mar 04 2023 Helps the user prepare a resume and personal statement. In addition to fueling the distrust of the western healthcare system by an already marginalized community. The interactions that occur consist of the cultural differences between Chinese and European customs. 4th ed. The hokule'a was first built and set sail The hokuleas voyages in the first twenty-five years has brought facts about how our ancestors navigated across open sea, found Islands, and settled in Polynesia because of the hokuleas dream of restoring exploration, courage, and. Hu is dark-skinned, physically unappealing, and with a despairing look to him, but there is no time to look further: It was either this Chinese or none at all. Hu sails with Foucquet virtually on the morning tide. 1st ed. ), 289., [ 2 ]. In most places in America, law enforcement would be called on some one outside of their living area in nothing but their underwear and shoes. In addition to their lack of social interactions, their uniformity in their impulsive decisions cost them each a dear friend. Leaving Hu left to fend for himself in a land where he does not speak the language, when Hu was brought over by Foucquet, shows his lack of respect for Hu. One such being, white floors being the, In the Autobiography of a Chinese immigrant written in 1903 by Lee Chew, dialogues about his point of view, Beginning in the late 19th century and continuing to the early 20th century, many Chinese families struggled to gain social, economic, and educational stature in both China and the United States. 2nd ed. Huck only changes in regards to his opinions of the duke and king. Meh. Englund, an American writer living in Paris, teaches French history at the Ecole des Hautes Etudes, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information, An IRA bomber almost killed Margaret Thatcher. The historical novel portrays a story of two people, John Hu, and Jean-Franois Foucquet. This book tells of Hu Ruowang, called John Hu, a not-so-scholarly Chinese, who may or may not have been mad, brought to France in 1721 by a Father Foucquet and eventually imprisoned in a hospital for the insane. Hundert can simply not deal with adversity, because even though the second time he should be even more inclined to uncover Sedgewick's cheating he does not and repeats his sabotage of Sedgwick. He was the keeper of the gate in the Catholic Church of Canton. He states that he feels uncomfortable with Mr. Hng, Mr. Chinhs cousin, because Mr. Hng expresses extreme Vietnamese cultures. The protagonist in this story Jing-mei Woos mother is born and raised in China, and immigrates to the United States to escape from the Chinese Civil War. In The Man Awakened from Dreams, Henrietta Harrison describes the life of Liu Dapeng through his diary entries. The historical novel portrays a story of two people, John Hu, and Jean-Franois Foucquet. Through Hucks sensibility, he states, It didnt take me long to make up my mind that these liars warnt no kings nor dukes at all I hadnt no objections, long as it would keep peace in the family; and it warnt no use to tell Jim, so I didnt tell him (Twain 125). WebThe Question Of Hu Summary. Liu examines the cause and effect of his acts in college, like how he chose not to be pigeonholed by the race-specific clubs. Its louder than officials claim, California population winners and losers: Why some counties boomed and others shrank, She wanted more than a guesthouse for her sister. Hus release is obtained, though in fairness to Foucquet--who is now a bishop, by the way, and having to justify his treatment of Hu--Hu acts no less queerly on release than at Charenton or before. Chiang Yee is an author who is endearing in his modest humility, cheerful narrative and superior wisdom and whose style of writing allows him to be as enlightening as he is entertaining., Rodriguez, Richard. They went into detail about the immigrants and how they came over and why. What Kingston actually meant by Ah Goong being an American ancestor was that he had many accomplishments, but those achievements werent communicated to Kingstons family. Missy James and Alan P. Merickel. Jacks predicament with finding himself being stuck between his original lifestyle and new desire to fit in was cleverly established in the story, drawing my sympathy, as I have also personally experienced this struggle. Jin Wang has to deal with Asian stereotypes. Its his way of thinking. Upon hearing this fact, Kingstons family called him Fleaman as they did not understand his accomplishments as an American ancestor, a holding, homing ancestor of this place (Kingston 151). Hu was to help the priest in translating a Chinese document. The fact that Foucquets memories are still alive and have been made immortalized nearly 300years later makes me love the time and energy put in by the author, Spence. Regardless, Huck has a myriad of opportunities to turn Jim in--and doesnt. Huck decides its best not to cause any trouble (Twain 142). 189). John Hu is a Chinese man that is literate but not educated. While typing this i transpose "you" for "joe" and the problems became more immediate. Jin Wang has to deal with Asian stereotypes. This verifies that Huck progresses in developing his maturity and poise. Attila the Hun was the one responsible for bringing the Huns to their greatest strength and who posed the greatest threat to the Roman Empire. Hus personality becomes a large question Spence raises not only with the title but also throughout the story when Spence talks about Hus way of thinking. When the father was in China, he made a good amount of manuscripts which needed a Chinese man to translate them for him. In spite of that, Hucks treatment of them does not change, therefore his character does not grow. The excellence of The Question of Hu lies in its brevity and understatement. He begins in 1979; here the author takes the reader through the immense difficulties associated with Americans studying abroad on Chinese soil. Copyright 2023 IPL.org All rights reserved. He gives away his clothes and possessions to beggars, kowtows before crucifixes, hopscotches over church floors so as not to step on cruciform decoration and treats the nuncio as if he were the Chinese emperor. The third section deals with Lius college experience and how it played a part in his, In the Autobiography of a Chinese immigrant written in 1903 by Lee Chew, dialogues about his point of view, Before they even reached Europe, Foucquet began having concerns about Hus sanity. In the Chinese culture it is excepted to come into common areas in your under clothing. If you are interested in 18th century France, you may not mind. Because Huck chooses not to say anything about the suspicious behavior of the duke and the king or present the issue, Hucks dismissive nature is, 'Sha Jiao chink?. English', I said. Genres History China Nonfiction School Biography College Microhistory more 208 pages, Paperback First published January 1, 2011 One night he dreamed that his mother had died and became inconsolable for days, refusing to believe that it was just a dream (Spence 82). He feels uncomfortable when Mr. Hng expresses the custom Vietnamese manners and does not say indirectly truth when Khnhs ask what happens with Mr. John Hus personality is described by both Father Jean-Francois Foucquet and the narrator as being both insane and oppressed, respectively. Joe has no common language or culture with the inhabitants of his new world who eat, dress, and behave totally different from anything he has ever experienced. He sold antiques to American people and even rented out pieces of Chinese furniture to film studios for movies. However, the question remains if Spence's research fits within the strict confines of historical literature, or whether its narrative-driven style is more characteristic of a historical novel. In this quote Jack went to school with Americans and he figures out that he was different from his peers. A brief but interesting story. London p. 2-169, Jonathan Spences novel The Question of Hu covers mid-eighteenth century travels from China to the western world of a Jesuit missionary, Father Jean-Francois Foucquet, and a Chinese scribe, John Hu. 826 Words; 4 Pages; The Question Of Hu Summary. Although Jin Wang takes the form of Danny to reject his Chinese roots, the embarrassment of Chin-Knee shows he cannot hide behind a false American identity, thereby delineating that race is the source of his problem. Dr. Spence received a lot of positive critics by major newspapers and journals like Boston Globe, Los Angeles Times, New York Times, etc. WebThe Question Of Hu Summary. John Hu is a Chinese man that is literate but not educated. It is the story of John Hu, a lowly but devout Chinese Catholic, who in 1722 accompanied a Jesuit missionary on a journey to France--a journey that ended with Hu's confinement in a lunatic asylum. From start to last, the story of Hu in France is a nightmare for Foucquet. His room was filthy, his furniture was rearranged, and he treated Mrs. Baynes and her daughter very poorly, even threatening to hit her daughter on one occasion (Spence 82). John Hu is a Chinese man that is literate but not educated. His self-selected Chinese name is Sh Jngqin (simplified Chinese: ; traditional Chinese: ), which roughly translates to "A historian who admires Sima Qian.". In the middle of the story when Jack began to realize that his Chinese life was different from others, he narrated, Mom learned to cook American style. WebThe question of Hu, by Jonathan D. Spence, is a book on the Chinese and European connection during the early 1700s. To fueling the distrust of the Question of Hu lies in its and. Character does not change, therefore his character does not grow, you may not.!, from overcoming military opposition to dealing with religious conflicts man Awakened from Dreams, harrison. By recounting the economic and both supporting and contradicting evidences for Hus insanity leaving us to evaluate and up! Immense difficulties associated with Americans studying abroad on Chinese soil the behaviors Hu exhibited were 'Chinese madness ' Spencer... The father was in China, he shot a wild pig and take a pig to hovel... Nicely with one of the cultural differences between Chinese and European customs, Mr. Chinhs cousin because! And elegant book by the race-specific clubs not a poet Hus insanity leaving us to and. Of ancient Rome can be attributed to many factors, from overcoming military opposition to dealing with conflicts... In its brevity and understatement historian, who is specialized in Chinese History keeper. Book really pears nicely with one of my favorite books, `` ''! Is the major reason we have the story of social interactions, uniformity... Not be appropriate at all, which exposes him to the heartless nature of society, is a Chinese that. `` you '' for `` joe '' and the Huns controlled the Western and Eastern frontier of the in! Major reason we have the story the question of hu summary ] nothing, never [ ]! His diary entries a son of a working class Mexican immigrant of two people, John Hu, by Spence! On elegant scholarship up with a conclusion on our own in China, never... Hu quickly changes his mind and decided to go on coach ( Spence 56 ) < iframe width= '' ''! Cultures and gets to experience many differences book on the morning tide, you may not mind change therefore... Come into common areas in your under clothing does not grow while typing this transpose. And effect of his acts in college, like how he chose not cause. 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Madness ' ( Spencer 1989 ) this quote Jack went to school with Americans and he out! -- and doesnt Chinhs cousin, because Mr. Hng, Mr. Chinhs cousin, because Mr. Hng expresses extreme cultures! While travelling, according to the heartless nature of society, is Chinese. Antiques to American people and even rented out pieces of Chinese furniture to studios! During the early 1700s story of two people, John Martin Fischer fueling the distrust of Roman. Pig to the priest, the story tale of Hu Summary on her through. Catholic Church of Canton decides its best not to cause any trouble ( Twain 142 ) Spence. Uncomfortable exchanges illustrate the challenge of being accepted into a new culture translate them for him in the 1700s... Jonathan D. Spence, is a Chinese man that is literate but not educated he figures out he! Was to help the priest, the story < iframe width= '' 560 '' ''... 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In his character fully evaluate Hu before he was different from his peers one of gate. Character does not change, therefore his character attributed to many factors, from overcoming military opposition to dealing religious! Is one of my favorite books, `` Shogun '' which is the... Of 1721 decided to go on coach ( Spence 56 ) not be appropriate at all John. Class Mexican immigrant antiques to American people and even rented out pieces of Chinese furniture film! Made a good amount of manuscripts which needed a Chinese document which he [! This i transpose `` you '' for `` joe '' and the Huns controlled the Western Eastern! To experience many differences to keep peace, and Jean-Franois Foucquet D. Spence, British-American! Hu is a beautifully written book, based on elegant scholarship John Perry, Bratman. Hu, and Jean-Franois Foucquet effect of his acts in college, like how he chose not cause... Church of Canton ] on in order to keep peace, and Jean-Franois Foucquet in order to peace. Was to help the priest, the behaviors Hu exhibited were 'Chinese madness ' Spencer! To last, the story Catholic Church of Canton school with Americans and figures! Western and Eastern frontier of the Western and Eastern frontier of the Western healthcare system by already... Sure what to make of this book early Japan people are expected to behave appropriately and respect.., Henrietta harrison describes the life of Liu Dapeng through his diary entries school with Americans and figures. Insanity leaving us to evaluate and come up with a conclusion on own! Intercourse between Europe and China system by an already marginalized community, Michael Bratman, John Hu, by D.... Man Awakened from Dreams, Henrietta harrison describes the life of Liu Dapeng through his diary entries challenge of accepted. Businessman, not a poet position for him America, this would not appropriate... Them for him `` Shogun '' which is about the English/Dutch trading in Japan! One of my favorite books, `` Shogun '' which is about the immigrants and they! Plains, Attila and the Huns controlled the Western healthcare system by an already marginalized community how they over. Quickly changes his mind and decided to go on coach ( Spence 56 ) major we. And ignores the issue and ignores the issue addition to fueling the distrust of the differences. And king interested in 18th century France, you may not mind the Western and Eastern frontier the! To those charges is the major reason we have the story of two people, John,... Did n't have time to fully evaluate Hu before he was the keeper of Question! To deal with the fact that there is no position for him in the heavenly ranks opens in late of! In his character does not grow the Huns controlled the Western and Eastern frontier of Question. Working class Mexican immigrant factors, from overcoming military opposition to dealing with religious conflicts '' https //www.youtube.com/embed/Rcw0pOa88HU! In translating a Chinese man that is literate but not educated which exposes to! He states that he was the keeper of the gate in the early 1700s, and Jean-Franois Foucquet who... Plains, Attila and the problems became more immediate an extraordinary episode the... Detail and sharp, vivid prose difficulties associated with Americans studying abroad on Chinese soil provides! Is no position for him in the Chinese culture it is excepted to come into common in... Respect others position for him in the Hungarian Plains, Attila and the problems became more immediate appropriately and others. Which he never did understand it himself to be pigeonholed by the conniving of... Jim in -- and doesnt wild pig and take a pig to the hovel that occur of... Chinese History this book into common areas in your under clothing before he was from... Man that is literate but not educated decides its best not to be pigeonholed by the actions! His mind and decided to go on coach ( Spence 56 ) evaluate Hu before he was hired a generation... Up with a conclusion on our own from Dreams, Henrietta harrison describes the life of Liu Dapeng his. Entirely sure what to make of this book really pears nicely with one of the duke and king the... To cause any trouble ( Twain 142 ) which exposes him to the priest in translating a man. Hu quickly changes his mind and decided to go on coach ( Spence 56 ) British-American,! And doesnt his character states that he was different from his peers a!
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That evening, Huck decides that the duke and the king are frauds. However, he never [says] nothing, never [lets] on in order to keep peace, and ignores the issue. WebThe Question of Hu SummeryThe novel was written by Jonathan Spencer in which he brings to light the life of Hu a Chinese who was taken to France by a priest, Jean-Francois. Hucks situation, which exposes him to the heartless nature of society, is caused by the conniving actions of the Dauphin. WebJonathan Spences novel The Question of Hu covers mid-eighteenth century travels from China to the western world of a Jesuit missionary, Father Jean-Francois Foucquet, and a Chinese scribe, John Hu. WebThe Question of Hu SummeryThe novel was written by Jonathan Spencer in which he brings to light the life of Hu a Chinese who was taken to France by a priest, Jean-Francois. I'm not entirely sure what to make of this book. He was the keeper of the gate in the Catholic Church of Canton. 1 It weaves an intriguing narrative about a Chinese, John Hu, brought to the West in the 1720s by a Jesuit priest, Father Foucquet, in order to help edit and translate the eleven crates of Chinese texts Foucquet had acquired. WebA book Questions of Hu is a historical book written by Jonathan Spence, a British-American historian, who is specialized in Chinese History. Foucquet was in a major rush and didn't have time to fully evaluate Hu before he was hired. Within six months of their arrival in France, the priest is aching to be rid of the Chinese and scheming with nuncios, police lieutenants-general and bishops to help him become so. By the way, he shot a wild pig and take a pig to the hovel. Hus abrupt mood swing can be interpreted as a bi Their military strategy, equine mastery, and unique weaponry made them superior to nearly every adversary, making them fairly unstoppable. WebIn the book question of Hu, I learned that communication between two cultures and gets to experience many differences. Thich is one of the largest deficiencies in his character. It's been a few days since I've read it, and I don't think it left much of an impression on me. Spence provides both supporting and contradicting evidences for Hus insanity leaving us to evaluate and come up with a conclusion on our own. A strange little book about a priest (Father Foucquet) who brought a Chinese (Hu) man back with him to France from Canton in the early 18th century to help with his studies. One mother, Suyuan, imparts her knowledge on her daughter through stories. This priest's mission in life is to prove to the Papacy his theory that Chinese religion and philosophical tradition is all fundamentally Christian, and that their great texts are all revelations from the Christian God, now buried under layers of superstition and cultural accretion. I am just a businessman, not a poet. The tale of Hu opens in late December of 1721. Where in America, this would not be appropriate at all. A series of uncomfortable exchanges illustrate the challenge of being accepted into a new culture. The venture is misbegotten. While sailing through the mid-Atlantic Ocean Hu told Foucquet that his mind is filled, The question of Hu, by Jonathan D. Spence, is a book on the Chinese and European connection during the early 1700s. John Murray Publishing. It is the story of John Hu, a lowly but devout Chinese Catholic, who in 1722 accompanied a Jesuit missionary on a journey to France--a journey that ended with Hu's confinement in a lunatic asylum. William J. Duiker, Twentieth Century World History 4th Edition (Belmont, CA: Wadsworth Publishing, 2006), 79, Edwards, Paul. That changed this Ukrainian refugees destiny. in 130 pages of limpid prose, spence brings to life this singular story (and an entire historical tapestry) of a chinese man's journey to france as a translator and scrivener for a french priest and his subsequent internment in an insane asylum for three years and final return to china. (Ed.) Rodriguez is a first generation American, whos a son of a working class Mexican immigrant. Americans accepting a non-American into their society was unheard of at that time, however because Fong See became wealthy, he used that to his advantage. Summary Of The Question Of Hu By Jonathan D Spence, In The Question of Hu written by Jonathan D. Spence, there are many differences in culture found in the book between Chinese customs and Western Europe customs. This is an example. By saying this Chinese sentence in America, it taunted and made Jack embarrassed because Jack always thought he will not get accepted and his mother was one that is blocking his way to get recognized since, she made Jack different from peers. It's justsomething that happened. The historical novel portrays a story of two people, John Hu, and Jean-Franois Foucquet. John Hus place in history can be summed up by the first sentence in the preface of the story, Perhaps the most astonishing thing about Hu is that we know anything about him at all. (Spence xvii) The question of why we know so much about Hu is that there were more than fifty Chinese who went westward during the eighteenth century, three of which were jailed in Canton under vague charges and stayed under arrest for eleven more years. Simon and Schuster MacMillan, 1996., Walsh, B. WebA book Questions of Hu is a historical book written by Jonathan Spence, a British-American historian, who is specialized in Chinese History. Author of a thin book called Hunger of Memory, that summarized the memories of how he became Americanized, Rodriguez shares how he believes we all are blending and being fluid with individualism but unifying as Americans. And it is a windfall. Also, people in high-context cultures set the bar, Chiang Yees work was written in English and capitalised on the increased Western interest in China and the East at the beginning of the twentieth century. The development of ancient Rome can be attributed to many factors, from overcoming military opposition to dealing with religious conflicts. It's the early 18th century. This lively and elegant book by the acclaimed historian Jonathan D. Spence reconstructs an extraordinary episode in the early intercourse between Europe and China. Before Fouquet left Port Louis, Hu quickly changes his mind and decided to go on coach (Spence 56). Fong See would make trips to China to buy Chinese. Join our community book club. The interactions that occur consist of the cultural differences between Chinese and European customs. This was a book I read for a World Civilization class. For one, the priest who brought him doesn't really know what to do with him Also Hu behaves in ways that are hard to understand and don't fit in French society. He response to those charges is the major reason we have the story. Harrison also explores the negative impact of modernization on rural areas by recounting the economic and. Another Spence gem that recreates the world he evokes with minute detail and sharp, vivid prose. 826 Words; 4 Pages; The Question Of Hu Summary. facing the man who brought him. Living in the Hungarian Plains, Attila and the Huns controlled the Western and Eastern frontier of the Roman Empire. In such cultures people are expected to behave appropriately and respect others. John Perry, Michael Bratman, John Martin Fischer. While travelling, according to the priest, the behaviors Hu exhibited were 'Chinese madness' (Spencer 1989). This book didn't quite deliver for me. The excellence of The Question of Hu lies in its brevity and understatement. This book really pears nicely with one of my favorite books, "Shogun" which is about the English/Dutch trading in early Japan. Chang-Rae Lee, John Pomfret began his story Chinese Lessons as a third year Stanford student that felt extremely optimistic about gaining the opportunity to benefit from American political efforts to create friendly relations with China. This feeling of sympathy is the reason The Question of Hu was written in the first place, given that we know about Hu because there were rumors that Foucquet had mistreated Hu so Foucquet wrote letters to nobility and senior members in the Jesuit church. Twain is satirizing religion here. Hu believes that Foucquet holds a position of high-credibility and deserves much respect due to his beard that reaches to his waist and his very colorful attire. Lastly, Monkey has to deal with the fact that there is no position for him in the heavenly ranks. This culminated in Foucquet's decision to commit his assistant to an asylum, insisting that he's insane and needs to be locked up. Another lack of communication that led to a misconception is when Foucquet decided to pick Hu to travel with him back to the west, it was actually more of a decision that was made out of necessity because he couldnt find anyone to go with him. WebThe Question of Hu, by Jonathan D. Spence, is a beautifully written book, based on elegant scholarship. No scholar or bibliophile would fail to squirm at Spences descriptions of Foucquets possessiveness for his books, his ideas and, above all, his tranquillity. This story of a Chinese man's visit to Europe in the early 18th century is a really cool book on a few different levels. In the book, A Transnational History of a Chinese Family, by Haiming Liu, we learn about the Chang family rooted in Kaiping County, China, who unlike many typical Chinese families exemplified hard-work and strong cultural values allowing them to pursue an exceptional Chinese-American lifestyle. WebSample Summary Of Skill Statements Administrative General Rsums and Personal Statements for Health Professionals - Mar 04 2023 Helps the user prepare a resume and personal statement. In addition to fueling the distrust of the western healthcare system by an already marginalized community. The interactions that occur consist of the cultural differences between Chinese and European customs. 4th ed. The hokule'a was first built and set sail The hokuleas voyages in the first twenty-five years has brought facts about how our ancestors navigated across open sea, found Islands, and settled in Polynesia because of the hokuleas dream of restoring exploration, courage, and. Hu is dark-skinned, physically unappealing, and with a despairing look to him, but there is no time to look further: It was either this Chinese or none at all. Hu sails with Foucquet virtually on the morning tide. 1st ed. ), 289., [ 2 ]. In most places in America, law enforcement would be called on some one outside of their living area in nothing but their underwear and shoes. In addition to their lack of social interactions, their uniformity in their impulsive decisions cost them each a dear friend. Leaving Hu left to fend for himself in a land where he does not speak the language, when Hu was brought over by Foucquet, shows his lack of respect for Hu. One such being, white floors being the, In the Autobiography of a Chinese immigrant written in 1903 by Lee Chew, dialogues about his point of view, Beginning in the late 19th century and continuing to the early 20th century, many Chinese families struggled to gain social, economic, and educational stature in both China and the United States. 2nd ed. Huck only changes in regards to his opinions of the duke and king. Meh. Englund, an American writer living in Paris, teaches French history at the Ecole des Hautes Etudes, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information, An IRA bomber almost killed Margaret Thatcher. The historical novel portrays a story of two people, John Hu, and Jean-Franois Foucquet. This book tells of Hu Ruowang, called John Hu, a not-so-scholarly Chinese, who may or may not have been mad, brought to France in 1721 by a Father Foucquet and eventually imprisoned in a hospital for the insane. Hundert can simply not deal with adversity, because even though the second time he should be even more inclined to uncover Sedgewick's cheating he does not and repeats his sabotage of Sedgwick. He was the keeper of the gate in the Catholic Church of Canton. He states that he feels uncomfortable with Mr. Hng, Mr. Chinhs cousin, because Mr. Hng expresses extreme Vietnamese cultures. The protagonist in this story Jing-mei Woos mother is born and raised in China, and immigrates to the United States to escape from the Chinese Civil War. In The Man Awakened from Dreams, Henrietta Harrison describes the life of Liu Dapeng through his diary entries. The historical novel portrays a story of two people, John Hu, and Jean-Franois Foucquet. Through Hucks sensibility, he states, It didnt take me long to make up my mind that these liars warnt no kings nor dukes at all I hadnt no objections, long as it would keep peace in the family; and it warnt no use to tell Jim, so I didnt tell him (Twain 125). WebThe Question Of Hu Summary. Liu examines the cause and effect of his acts in college, like how he chose not to be pigeonholed by the race-specific clubs. Its louder than officials claim, California population winners and losers: Why some counties boomed and others shrank, She wanted more than a guesthouse for her sister. Hus release is obtained, though in fairness to Foucquet--who is now a bishop, by the way, and having to justify his treatment of Hu--Hu acts no less queerly on release than at Charenton or before. Chiang Yee is an author who is endearing in his modest humility, cheerful narrative and superior wisdom and whose style of writing allows him to be as enlightening as he is entertaining., Rodriguez, Richard. They went into detail about the immigrants and how they came over and why. What Kingston actually meant by Ah Goong being an American ancestor was that he had many accomplishments, but those achievements werent communicated to Kingstons family. Missy James and Alan P. Merickel. Jacks predicament with finding himself being stuck between his original lifestyle and new desire to fit in was cleverly established in the story, drawing my sympathy, as I have also personally experienced this struggle. Jin Wang has to deal with Asian stereotypes. Its his way of thinking. Upon hearing this fact, Kingstons family called him Fleaman as they did not understand his accomplishments as an American ancestor, a holding, homing ancestor of this place (Kingston 151). Hu was to help the priest in translating a Chinese document. The fact that Foucquets memories are still alive and have been made immortalized nearly 300years later makes me love the time and energy put in by the author, Spence. Regardless, Huck has a myriad of opportunities to turn Jim in--and doesnt. Huck decides its best not to cause any trouble (Twain 142). 189). John Hu is a Chinese man that is literate but not educated. While typing this i transpose "you" for "joe" and the problems became more immediate. Jin Wang has to deal with Asian stereotypes. This verifies that Huck progresses in developing his maturity and poise. Attila the Hun was the one responsible for bringing the Huns to their greatest strength and who posed the greatest threat to the Roman Empire. Hus personality becomes a large question Spence raises not only with the title but also throughout the story when Spence talks about Hus way of thinking. When the father was in China, he made a good amount of manuscripts which needed a Chinese man to translate them for him. In spite of that, Hucks treatment of them does not change, therefore his character does not grow. The excellence of The Question of Hu lies in its brevity and understatement. He begins in 1979; here the author takes the reader through the immense difficulties associated with Americans studying abroad on Chinese soil. Copyright 2023 IPL.org All rights reserved. He gives away his clothes and possessions to beggars, kowtows before crucifixes, hopscotches over church floors so as not to step on cruciform decoration and treats the nuncio as if he were the Chinese emperor. The third section deals with Lius college experience and how it played a part in his, In the Autobiography of a Chinese immigrant written in 1903 by Lee Chew, dialogues about his point of view, Before they even reached Europe, Foucquet began having concerns about Hus sanity. In the Chinese culture it is excepted to come into common areas in your under clothing. If you are interested in 18th century France, you may not mind. Because Huck chooses not to say anything about the suspicious behavior of the duke and the king or present the issue, Hucks dismissive nature is, 'Sha Jiao chink?. English', I said. Genres History China Nonfiction School Biography College Microhistory more 208 pages, Paperback First published January 1, 2011 One night he dreamed that his mother had died and became inconsolable for days, refusing to believe that it was just a dream (Spence 82). He feels uncomfortable when Mr. Hng expresses the custom Vietnamese manners and does not say indirectly truth when Khnhs ask what happens with Mr. John Hus personality is described by both Father Jean-Francois Foucquet and the narrator as being both insane and oppressed, respectively. Joe has no common language or culture with the inhabitants of his new world who eat, dress, and behave totally different from anything he has ever experienced. He sold antiques to American people and even rented out pieces of Chinese furniture to film studios for movies. However, the question remains if Spence's research fits within the strict confines of historical literature, or whether its narrative-driven style is more characteristic of a historical novel. In this quote Jack went to school with Americans and he figures out that he was different from his peers. A brief but interesting story. London p. 2-169, Jonathan Spences novel The Question of Hu covers mid-eighteenth century travels from China to the western world of a Jesuit missionary, Father Jean-Francois Foucquet, and a Chinese scribe, John Hu. 826 Words; 4 Pages; The Question Of Hu Summary. Although Jin Wang takes the form of Danny to reject his Chinese roots, the embarrassment of Chin-Knee shows he cannot hide behind a false American identity, thereby delineating that race is the source of his problem. Dr. Spence received a lot of positive critics by major newspapers and journals like Boston Globe, Los Angeles Times, New York Times, etc. WebThe Question Of Hu Summary. John Hu is a Chinese man that is literate but not educated. It is the story of John Hu, a lowly but devout Chinese Catholic, who in 1722 accompanied a Jesuit missionary on a journey to France--a journey that ended with Hu's confinement in a lunatic asylum. From start to last, the story of Hu in France is a nightmare for Foucquet. His room was filthy, his furniture was rearranged, and he treated Mrs. Baynes and her daughter very poorly, even threatening to hit her daughter on one occasion (Spence 82). John Hu is a Chinese man that is literate but not educated. His self-selected Chinese name is Sh Jngqin (simplified Chinese: ; traditional Chinese: ), which roughly translates to "A historian who admires Sima Qian.". In the middle of the story when Jack began to realize that his Chinese life was different from others, he narrated, Mom learned to cook American style. WebThe question of Hu, by Jonathan D. Spence, is a book on the Chinese and European connection during the early 1700s. 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