"中國小說史略" by Xun Lu is a literary survey published in 1925 that traces the evolution of traditional Chinese fiction. From ancient myths and legends through various dynasties to late Qing novels, this groundbreaking work offered the first in-depth examination of Chinese fiction published in China. Though scholars note gaps in coverage and reliance on incomplete sources, its interpretive framework and attention to neglected works continue to shape debate and remain influential in the field.
Wikipedia page about this book: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Brief_History_of_Chinese_Fiction