ChineseandEnglishCulureDifferencesReflecedinNames_开题报告

   We often meet some troubles in communication, especially cross culture. This problem also exists in China and western country, among which name is a typical example. If we want to know more about the different history and culture, firstly, we have to know the name since it is a cultural bridge.

  Before I study this subject, there are many scholars have researched in many aspects, it paves the way for my study. Zhuang Jianling (2002) gives a brief analysis that the cultural factors play an important role in the process of forming of name between English and Chinese. Dou Fangxia (2008) emphasizes on the comparison on Chinese and English surnames. Ai Fuqi, Hu Zongfeng, 2007, English and Chinese Surname Differences and Cultural Origins, Jounal of ZheJiang Wanli University. It stresses on the name’s differences and origins. Abroad scholars also have interest in this topic. Dunkling writes The Guinness Book of Names. Reaney, P.H.(1967) and George R.(1979). analyzes the Origin of English Surnames. 

   The number of documents on the analysis and interpretation of the origins of surnames is numerous, and the analysis has been very thorough. The opinions of various scholars are mostly discussed in terms of their historical and cultural significance. Of course, many scholars have conducted in-depth discussions on various aspects.

   Regarding the origin of surnames, Furao “On Chinese and Western Culture from the Name Connotation” mentions that Chinese surnames are far less in number than English surnames. Many scholars believe that the Chinese surname originated from the matriarchal society. According to different matriarchs and dwellings, each clan has a different clan name. This clan name is the earliest Chinese surname. The British "surname" is a historical product of British society. From scratch, to mature, it has gone through nearly three centuries. In the 5th century AD, when the British ancestors invaded the British land, they formed a tribal society. At that time, the British did not have a "surname". Until the Normans took over England in 1066, people had the so-called "name". Li Jiabiao mentioned in the article " English and Chinese name culture and the naming method ": The surnames often reflect the different cultures of different countries and ethnic groups and many aspects of ancient civilization. As a social phenomenon, person's name also embodies a psychological process. Therefore, the development of surnames depends entirely on the social and cultural background in which it is located. The form and application of surnames are also accompanied by historical and social changes.

   In "On the Cultural Connotation of English Names", Cui Haiyan starts from the aspects of the composition of English names, the characteristics of surnames and names, and their etymology. He explores and studies English names and reveals their unique cultural connotations. It also pointed out that “English name, as a symbol to distinguish individuals from individuals, has only a single expression of social function, but it has been given a deep historical tradition and cultural origin. Thus, the unique English national name has been formed. In the cross-cultural communication, understanding and mastering the cultural charm of this culture will undoubtedly be a successful and effective guarantee."

   It is important to increase different nation's cultural communication and know more about the cultural similarities and differences between Chinese and English through studying the origins, evolution, as well as differences between Chinese and English names. This is explored the value and significance in this paper. 

Outline

Introduction

1.1 Research Background

1.2 The connection between name and culture

2. Differences in Name Structure between Chinese and English

2.1. Composition of Chinese Names

2.2. Composition of English Names

2.3. The cultural differences reflected in the composition of Chinese and English names

3. Differences in Name Sources between Chinese and English

3.1. The origin and meaning of Chinese names

3.2. The origin and meaning of English names

3.3. Cultural Differences Reflected in the Names and Meanings of Chinese and English Names

4. Conclusion

5. References

References

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