Academic Value of Xiehua Qixiu by Yang Sheng'an

Xiehua Qixiu by Yang Sheng'an was criticized in Sikuquanshuzongmu for its writing purpose, styles of notes, data collection scope and antithesis. This paper points out that such criticism is unfair and inconsistent with the book content: 1) Yang Sheng'an aimed to advocate extensive learning against then abuses; 2) his styles of notes were confined to that age; 3) his data collection scope should be differentially treated; 4) his well-turned phrases and refined sentences were cited for enlightenment with only a little overlooking antithesis. Besides, the quotations from classics are good for broadening readers' horizon and thinking, which were adopted by similar books later.