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Robert Morrison

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description Robert Morrison Overview

Robert Morrison was a Scottish Protestant missionary and lexicographer who produced the first Chinese-English dictionary. Published in six volumes between 1815 and 1823, his dictionary provided a foundational linguistic bridge between Western scholars and the Chinese language. He worked primarily in Guangzhou and Macau under strict restrictions from the Qing dynasty while also translating the Bible into Chinese. His lexicographical and translation work laid the groundwork for future Western sinology.

help Robert Morrison FAQ

Who wrote the first Chinese-English dictionary?

The Scottish missionary Robert Morrison compiled the first Chinese-English dictionary. The massive work, titled A Dictionary of the Chinese Language, was published in six volumes between 1815 and 1823.

Why was Robert Morrison in China?

Robert Morrison traveled to China under the auspices of the London Missionary Society to spread Christianity. He became the first Protestant missionary to operate in mainland China, basing himself in Guangzhou and Macau.

Did Robert Morrison translate the Bible?

Yes, Morrison completed the first complete translation of the Bible into Chinese in 1823. This achievement, along with his monumental dictionary, significantly bridged the linguistic gap between Western missionaries and the Chinese populace.

How long did it take Robert Morrison to compile his Chinese dictionary?

Morrison spent years studying the local language and translating classical texts to compile his dictionary. The comprehensive, multi-volume work was published over an eight-year period, starting with the first volume in 1815 and concluding around 1823.

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