Index of the Project Gutenberg Works of Herbert Allen Giles

This collection opens a window onto the rich tapestry of China’s past, gathered by a seasoned scholar of the language and its customs. Listeners will encounter vivid sketches of everyday life—from court etiquette and women’s roles to the bustling street markets and mystic superstitions that shaped daily encounters. The volume also surveys the grand sweep of Chinese history, touching on dynastic shifts, the rise of the Manchus, and the interplay of ancient belief systems such as Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism.

Beyond the factual overviews, the anthology offers a series of intriguing tales drawn from classic Chinese studios, presenting strange, moral, and sometimes uncanny stories that reveal the imagination of centuries‑old storytellers. Interwoven with maps, illustrations, and thoughtful commentary, the work invites listeners to explore a civilization’s language, literature, and lingering mysteries, all while staying firmly rooted in the scholar’s clear, engaging voice.