Gems of Chinese Literature was translated, selected and edited by Herbert A. Giles in 1884. These gems are one of the early "literary prospecting" works of the late 19th century in which English speaking audiences were given some of their very first views of the vast literature in the Chinese language. The selections cover a huge swath of Chinese history beginning with their beginning of their "classics" with the great K'ung Fu-tzu (Confucius).

    This particular volume has a nice balance between philosophical/practical essays, historical, didactic, literary stories, and poetic works.  The selections are remarkably short, and easy to read translations that have brief introductions.  The selections are by emotional as well as intellectually calculated and stimulating. The author has also included several small surveys of literary periods and their place within Chinese mainstream history in addition to a short preface.  There is also a "Miscellaneous" section, in addition to the index, where the author has included some household words, proverbs and other fragments.  

    Due in part to China's long-standing literary and scholastic examination process (stretching back thousands of years), it is easy to see a large number of the selections included as possible entries from candidates for degreed credentials and entry into the administrative system used by most Chinese Emperors, the Mongols and other successful nomadic/steppe raiders and conquerors. Amid the many works represented, there runs the strong current of Confucian values and thought system due to the large emphasis placed upon them by the examinations and society.  The individual expressions and modes of expression of the values are interesting as the author included the selections in chronological order and allows the reader to view the changing taste and inherent subtlety of Chinese thought.

    This early volume of translated texts is incredibly accessible to those new to Chinese literature.  It may perhaps open new paths of literary exploration for those already more familiar with Chinese literature.  Gems of Chinese Literature also casts its own glow of fascination with English and Western historical views of China, the continent of Asia, and how people have sought to better understand each other through mutually beneficial cultural studies.