How Long to Read On Saving Face

How Long Does it Take to Read On Saving Face?

It takes the average reader 2 hours and 17 minutes to read On Saving Face by Michael Keevak

Assuming a reading speed of 250 words per minute. Learn more

Description

In On Saving Face, Michael Keevak traces the Western reception of the Chinese concept of “face” during the past two hundred years, arguing that it has always been linked to nineteenth-century colonialism. “Lose face” and “save face” have become so normalized in modern European languages that most users do not even realize that they are of Chinese origin. “Face” is an extremely complex and varied notion in all East Asian cultures. It involves proper behavior and the avoidance of conflict, encompassing every aspect of one’s place in society as well as one’s relationships with other people. One can “give face,” “get face,” “fight for face,” “tear up face,” and a host of other expressions. But when it began to become known to the Western trading community in China beginning in the middle of the nineteenth century, it was distorted and reduced to two phrases only, “lose face” and “save face,” both of which were used to suggest distinctly Western ideas of humiliation, embarrassment, honor, and reputation. The Chinese were judged as a race obsessed with the fear of “losing (their) face,” and they constantly resorted to vain attempts to “save” it in the face of Western correction. “Lose face” may be an authentic Chinese expression but “save face” is different. “Save face” was actually a Western invention. “To ‘save’ or to ‘lose face’, the ‘giving of face’ or the humiliating absence of such a noble gesture have since the nineteenth century been regarded as archetypical features of the puzzling cultural universe that ‘China’ represented in the eyes of the West. This book is the fruit of many years of meticulous research by Michael Keevak, conclusively argued and—importantly—enjoyably written. A ‘must’ for any reader with an interest in Chinese culture.” —Lars Laamann, SOAS, University of London “Revising assumptions that ‘saving face’ is a term of exclusively Chinese origin, Keevak traces deftly how the expression emerged rather in a shuttle movement between East and West, in European colonialist efforts to pinpoint and essentialize ‘Chineseness.’ This lucidly written book brings us to new understanding of an old term.” —Emily Sun, Barnard College, Columbia University

How long is On Saving Face?

On Saving Face by Michael Keevak is 135 pages long, and a total of 34,425 words.

This makes it 46% the length of the average book. It also has 42% more words than the average book.

How Long Does it Take to Read On Saving Face Aloud?

The average oral reading speed is 183 words per minute. This means it takes 3 hours and 8 minutes to read On Saving Face aloud.

What Reading Level is On Saving Face?

On Saving Face is suitable for students ages 10 and up.

Note that there may be other factors that effect this rating besides length that are not factored in on this page. This may include things like complex language or sensitive topics not suitable for students of certain ages.

When deciding what to show young students always use your best judgement and consult a professional.

Where Can I Buy On Saving Face?

On Saving Face by Michael Keevak is sold by several retailers and bookshops. However, Read Time works with Amazon to provide an easier way to purchase books.

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