Abstract:

Based on the historian' s tradition of factual records, Sima Qian founded the tradition of biographical literature. Without the literariness in his heart at that time or the socalled literary concept handed down to generations, he just tried to depict his characters vividly. He grasped their spirits, and, from their actions to their displayed personality or psychology, brought forth the intrinsic factor of historical changes, thus representing his judgment of history. But it was how to portray his characters vividly that started the tradition of biographical literature. His profound historical thinking and outstanding historical information made his biographies reach an unprecedented height, just as he said, "making an approach to the relationship between nature and society and understanding the change from the ancient to the present". And by doing so, are produced the literary devices of The Grand Scribe' s Records. Therefore, it is necessary to come from this place for understanding the birth and development of China' s literature.

Key words: The Grand Scribes Records , the Traditional Establishment , Biographical Literature