Exploring the Cultural Expressions of Romantic Poetry and Drama in Chinese and Western Traditions

Against the backdrop of globalization, Chinese and Western cultures continue to interact. This paper provides a detailed analysis of the similarities and differences in the expression of Romanticism within Chinese and Western cultural contexts, delving into the geographical, cultural background, and specific poet-related factors that contribute to these variations. Through extensive research of relevant literature and close reading of Chinese and Western literary works, the conclusion is drawn that the reasons for this phenomenon are complex and profound. Key factors include the differences between the river-based civilization (China) and the maritime civilization (the West), as well as the distinct influences of their respective cultural backgrounds. Furthermore, a detailed comparative analysis is conducted of two literary giants, William Shakespeare and Tang Xianzu, examining their similarities and differences in Romantic expression. While Shakespeare’s dramatic plots are generally more compact, Tang Xianzu conveyed more complex layers of thought and emotion. It is particularly noteworthy that in contemporary times, both their ideological depth and stage presentation techniques show a trend of mutual influence and interweaving.