ABSTRACT
This chapter demonstrates that Chu Hsi's theory of interpretation actually shares much in common with the "romantic" Verstehen hermeneutics of Friedrich Schleiermacher and Wilhelm Dilthey. It also demonstrates that Chu Hsi's philosophy of reading contributes an interesting voice to the Modem West's ongoing discourse on hermeneutics. The chapter illustrates how applying the terminology and theory of the Verstehen school to an analysis of Chu Hsi's work renders his hermeneutic positions more intelligible and brings into focus certain features and nuances that might otherwise be overlooked. It suggests that the demonstrated confluence of the two respective issues will underscore the increasing need for the academy to take seriously various possible directions for a "comparative hermeneutics" or a "hermeneutic dialogue." These issues are: Chu Hsi's contributions to modern hermeneutic theory and the Verstehen school's contributions toward an understanding of Chu His.
