THE FORMATION AND EVOLUTION OF BOOK CENSORSHIP IN THE QING DYNASTY: A STUDY OF THE PUBLISHING INDUSTRY ON SIBAO

Abstract

This thesis emphasizes the formation and evolution of book censorship in the Qing dynasty and the impact of censorship on the choice of publications made by publishers in different regions. Book censorship in the Qing dynasty emerged in the early 17th century and was institutionalized, reaching its peak in the mid-to-late 18th century. Along with the development of censorship, the publishing centers around the major cities declined, and publishing centers away from the major cities, represented by the Sibao, began to emerge. Legal cases on censorship and distinctions between publications in different regions reveal the close relationship between censorship and the publishing industry. By reconsidering the publishing history of Sibao within the censorship framework, this thesis reveals how Sibao grew and developed under the Qing Dynasty's strict censorship, especially during the Qianlong period. This thesis examines censorship and the publishing industry during the Qing dynasty and contributes insights into the causes of the changing trends that arose at the center of publishing during the Qing dynasty.