Interactions among the Literati in Ming and Qing Dynasties: A Focus onRecords of the Grand Historian

The presence of Records of the Grand Historianwas diverse among the literati in Ming and Qing Dynasties. The precious version of this historical book obtained the significance beyond the content of the book itself in intergroup interactions. It was endowed with the connotation of human sentiments as it circulated. In the social interactions of different groups related to the book, the Mufu(aides and staff) of ZENG Guofan with MO Youzhi as a center, facilitated the emergence of modern refined versions of Records of the Grand Historian. These versions finally were printed by the staff who mutually borrowed the book, sourced rare editions of the book through various channels. A bibliophile community was centered around MIU Quansun. The community was based on a shared love of collecting, focused on activities such as evaluating versions of Records of the Grand Historian, appreciating good editions of books, and exchanging and mortgages of books. It showcased the continuation of book-collecting culture and academic aura after the end of the imperial system.