This article delves deeply into the origins of Chinese children's drama before the influential May Fourth Movement, shedding light on the multifaceted and intricate influencing factors that contributed to its nascent development. By examining the influence of traditional Chinese opera on early children's dramas, the evolving concepts of children's education, the burgeoning growth of other forms of children's art, and the significant impact of established Chinese drama, the article reveals a rich tapestry of cultural and societal dynamics. These elements collectively facilitated the emergence of Chinese children's dramas, marking a pivotal moment in the nation's cultural landscape. Furthermore, the budding of Chinese children's drama before the May Fourth Movement serves as a testament to the profound cognitive transformation of Chinese society towards children, reflecting both the integration and collision of Chinese and Western cultures. Ultimately, this historical phenomenon underscores significant shifts in Chinese society's understanding and appreciation of children as a distinct and valuable group within the broader cultural fabric.
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