Rich in meaning and reflective of a long history, Chinese names represent the culture and aspirations of a proud people. While they may seem bewildering to a non-Chinese speaker, there is logic behind the naming process.

Part One: Chinese Surnames

1. The genesis of surnames

2. How surnames were created

3. Bestowal and alteration of surnames

4. Classification of surnames

5. Major surnames

6. New hundred families' surnames

Part Two: Chinese Given Names

1. Origins of given names

2. Naming traditions

3. How names are chosen

4. Characteristics of naming throughout the ages

5. Names of commoners in ancient times

6. Emperor and names

7. Imperial examinations and names

8. Childhood names

9. Interesting names

10. Names and fortune

11. National and family name taboos

12. Customs of naming

13. Name repetition

14. Name riddles

Part Three: Courtesy Names and Other Types

of Names

1. Courtesy names

2. Pseudonyms and nicknames

3. Pen names and stage names

Part Four: The Chinese Way of Addressing

1. Ways of calling Chinese names

2. Self-referential and referential

3. Forms of address from ancient to modem times

4. Relationship Chart

Appendices

Index of Chinese Family Names

A Brief Chronology of Chinese History