Abstract:

Zhang Ertian was the key promoter of Zhang Xuecheng’s thought in the late Qing Dynasty and the early Republic of China. He established his own academic position through the study and assimilation of Zhang Xuecheng. His work Shi Wei reflects an innovative transformation of Zhang Xuecheng’s historical ideas. With his unique academic style, Zhang Ertian was highly praised by Naito Torajiro, who was a pioneer in the study of Zhang Xuecheng in Japan. Zhang Ertian made significant contributions to the publication of a new edition of Zhangshi Yishu, considering Zhang Xuecheng’s historical thought as a valuable means of correcting academic trends addressing contemporary issues. An investigation into Zhang Ertian’s academic achievements in the study of Zhang Xuecheng, as well as the inter-cultural exchanges between China and other countries, can provide a clearer understanding of the origins of the enthusiasm for Zhang Xuecheng in the early Republic of China in the context of academic history.

Key words: Zhang Ertian, Sun Deqian, Naito Torajiro, Zhang Xuecheng, Zhangshi Yishu