Endymion Wilkinson

Endymion Porter Wilkinson is a British sinologist, diplomat, and scholar who has made significant contributions to the field of Chinese historical studies. His most notable work is "Chinese History: A New Manual," an extensive guide to Sinology that has become a fundamental resource for scholars and researchers since its first publication in 1973. Following his education at Cambridge and teaching experience in Beijing during the mid-1960s, Wilkinson completed his PhD at Princeton University under renowned scholars James T.C. Liu and Frederick W. Mote. His academic career began at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London, where he quickly established himself as a leading Sinologist. Wilkinson later served as the European Union Ambassador to China and Mongolia from 1994 to 2001, combining his scholarly expertise with diplomatic service. His manual on Chinese history has continued to evolve, with the 2022 Sixth Edition expanding to two volumes containing 1.7 million words and covering Chinese history through 1976.

Readers consistently highlight Wilkinson's "Chinese History: A New Manual" as a comprehensive reference work for Chinese studies. Academic reviewers on platforms like H-Net praise its detailed coverage of sources, methodologies, and research tools. Liked: - Exhaustive documentation and citations - Clear organization of complex historical information - Regular updates that incorporate new scholarship - Practical research guidance and bibliographic information Disliked: - Dense academic writing style - High price point for print editions - Some sections become outdated between editions - Limited coverage of post-1976 developments Ratings: Goodreads: 4.6/5 (43 ratings) Amazon: 4.8/5 (21 reviews) Harvard University Press site: Multiple positive academic reviews One researcher noted: "The manual serves as both a reference guide and a methodological handbook - I consult it weekly." A graduate student criticized: "The writing can be quite dry and technical for newcomers to the field."

Chinese History: A New Manual (First published 1973, with multiple expanded editions through 2022) A comprehensive reference work covering Chinese history, historiography, and research methods, including detailed information on primary sources, chronology, geography, and various aspects of Chinese civilization from earliest times through 1976.

Joseph Needham His multi-volume "Science and Civilization in China" series provides comprehensive analysis of Chinese scientific and technological developments throughout history. His work parallels Wilkinson's in scope and scholarly thoroughness, offering detailed examination of primary sources and historical contexts.

William H. Nienhauser His translation and editing work on "The Grand Scribe's Records" makes Sima Qian's historical writings accessible to English readers. His methodical approach to Chinese historical texts mirrors Wilkinson's attention to detail and commitment to source material analysis.

Patricia Buckley Ebrey Her "The Cambridge Illustrated History of China" and other works present Chinese history with focus on social and cultural dynamics. Her research methodology combines textual analysis with material culture studies, similar to Wilkinson's comprehensive approach.

Mark Edward Lewis His books on early Chinese history, including "The Early Chinese Empires," demonstrate deep engagement with primary sources and archaeological evidence. His work provides structural analysis of Chinese civilization that complements Wilkinson's historical manual.

Benjamin A. Elman His research on Chinese intellectual and cultural history, particularly "From Philosophy to Philology," examines the development of Chinese scholarship. His focus on historiography and textual studies aligns with Wilkinson's emphasis on research methodology and historical sources.