Xiaomei Chen Books

Focusing on the concept of 'Occidentalism,' this revised edition explores how the appropriation of Western discourse can serve as a liberating force in non-Western cultures, particularly in post-Mao China. Xiaomei Chen offers a fresh perspective that contrasts with Edward Said's views in Orientalism, presenting an original model for comparative literary and cultural studies. The new preface, foreword, and additional chapter on Chinese diaspora writings enrich the analysis, making it a significant contribution to understanding cross-cultural dynamics.

Focusing on the evolution of Chinese theater, Xiaomei Chen explores the connections between the Republican, high socialist, and postsocialist periods. She highlights the continuities in theatrical practices and the common aspirations for the social role of performance throughout the twentieth century, challenging the notion that these periods are entirely separate. This fresh perspective sheds light on the enduring legacies and trends that have shaped modern Chinese theater.