王韬、黄胜《火器略说》的成书与流传

Publication and Circulation of A Brief Introduction to Firearms

《火器略说》是王韬与黄胜合作编译的,书的主体内容来自于黄胜翻译的一些近代西学资料,另外,此书还有19篇论说文,其中18篇是王韬独立撰写,全书的文字润色与审订也是由王韬完成的。该书在成书后虽受权贵的青睐,可惜未能流传甚广。王韬主政香港中华印务总局后,将此书重新编订并刊刻出版,积极推行于军政各界,此书的正式出版可以说仅是王韬一人之力。正是由于王韬具备敏锐的军事嗅觉与远见卓识,才有了《火器略说》一书的问世,在此书的广为流传与巨大影响中,王韬出力较多。

A Brief Introduction to Firearms was compiled by Wang Tao and Wong Shing.The main content of the book was translated by Wong Shing from some Western learning materials of modern times.As for Wang Tao,he finished the 18 essays out of 19 in all independently,as well as the polishing work and revising of the whole book.Although the book was favored by the dignitaries after its publication,unfortunately,it did not spread widely.After Wang Tao took charge of Chung Hwa Printing Administration in Hong Kong,he reedited and republished the book and actively promoted this book in the military and political circles.The credit of the official publication of this book should be given to Wang Tao only.It was his keen military sense and foresight that led to the publication of the book.He also contributed hugely to its wide spreading and great influence.