論晚清小裡的鐘錶暨其時間再現

Timepieces and the Reproduction of Time in Late Qing Dynasty Novels

本文首先考察鐘錶於中國古代小中的相關描述，以器物、時間、素材等三方面切入，建立論述的基本架構。其次，以物質書寫的角度觀察晚清小家如何書寫鐘錶器物，提出不同於古代小之新的用法或現世指涉，還有如何形成新的時間感知，並結合人物心理的描寫手法，成為小敘事之特色。接著，論述鐘點時間與小藝術表現之關係，包含小場景與人物行動的精細化、對於神魔想像的詮釋與轉型，及如何形塑美好之未來世界等等，呈現出新的敘事內容。最後，在鐘錶與時間再現的背後，理應有一套關於鐘錶及時間的價值探討，這些價值將與傳統思維產生裂變，折射出個人、國族及民生經濟的深刻意涵。

In this study, the author first uses three central aspects, object, time, and material, to establish a basic structure with which to examine the relevant descriptions of clocks found within ancient Chinese vernacular fiction. Furthermore, a material writing perspective is employed to explore how late Qing dynasty novelists depict timepieces, portrayals which differ from their ancient counterparts, as well as formulating a new perception of time, all of which became a characteristic of narration that integrated character psychology. The author then discusses the relationship between clock time and the artistic expressions within the novels—including the refinement of their settings and the actions of their characters—the interpretation and transformation of a demonic imagination, and how the writings sculpt a “better future.” Finally, behind the reproduction of both timepieces and time, a discussion of value exists concerning the two subjects, one which breaks away from traditional thinking as well as reflecting the profound meanings of the individual, the nation, and the livelihoods and economy of the people.