Past Present Contrast in Essays | Generated by AI
Question: Which of the following essays use a contrast between past and present (今昔对比) as a narrative technique?
Answer:
Correct Answer
C, E
Detailed Explanation
今昔对比 refers to a writing technique that narrates or argues by contrasting historical conditions (“the past”) with current reality (“the present”), often to express reflection, criticism, or cultural concern.
Let’s analyze each option one by one:
A.《先妣事略》 ❌
- Author: 归有光
- Genre: Reminiscence / biographical prose
- Focus: Personal memory of the author’s mother
- Narrative style: Emotional recollection, not structured past–present contrast ✅ Uses memory, ❌ not systematic 今昔对比
B.《西湖七月半》 ❌
- Author: 张岱
- Genre: Essay describing scenery and social life
- Focus: A single time period (festival night at West Lake)
- Technique: Scenic description and irony, not temporal contrast ❌ No clear comparison between historical and contemporary states
C.《香市》 ✅
- Author: 吴伯箫
- Core technique: Explicit comparison between the traditional, lively rural fair (past) and its modern decline (present)
- Purpose: Reflecting on social change and loss of tradition ✅ Classic example of 今昔对比
D.《爱尔克的灯光》 ❌
- Author: 巴金
- Focus: Ideological reflection on life, youth, and ideals
- Technique: Symbolism and philosophical reflection ❌ Emphasis is on inner reflection, not historical past–present contrast
E.《都江堰》 ✅
- Author: 余秋雨
-
Core technique:
- Ancient Dujiangyan irrigation system (past)
- Modern society’s attitude toward power, technology, and civilization (present)
- Uses history to comment on modern values ✅ Strong and typical 今昔对比 narrative
Why Your Answer Was Incorrect
You selected C, D, but 《爱尔克的灯光》 does not rely on a past–present historical contrast. Instead, it focuses on symbolism and ideological awakening, whereas 《都江堰》 clearly contrasts ancient wisdom with modern civilization.
Exam Tip
When you see “今昔对比”, look for essays that:
- Explicitly mention ancient vs modern, historical vs contemporary
- Use history to criticize or reflect on the present
Typical correct answers often include:
- 余秋雨 (culture + history + modern reflection)
- Essays about traditional society vs modern change
If you want, I can:
- Summarize common narrative techniques and their matching texts
- Create similar multiple-choice trap questions
- Give a quick table mapping essays → techniques
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