John Webb’s ‘An Historical Essay Endeavoring a Probability that the Language of the Empire of China is the Primitive Language’ (London: Nath. Brook, 1669)
This book, written by John Webb, was published in 1669 and holds the distinction of being the first European book on the Chinese language. B orn in 1611 in London, Webb was an architect and scholar active in the mid-17th century. He came from a Somerset family and is known for his architectural works, which were heavily influenced by his master, Inigo Jones.
Webb’s earliest known drawings incude designs for the Barber Surgeons’ Hall in London (1636–1637) a lodge in Hampshire, and stables for Mr. Featherstone in 1638. His collection of over 200 surviving drawings is currently held by Worcester College, Oxford, the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), and Chatsworth House.
Driven by intellectual curiosity, Webb wrote his essay about China based on the travel accounts of Jesuit missionaries, despite never having visited China or learned the language. When contextualized within the debates of the time regarding the original Language of Eden, Webb proposed the intriguing hypothesis that Chinese could be the original language spoken by humanity. He drew parallels between Chinese characters and ancient Hebrew and suggested a connection to the biblical Tower of Babel. While his specific theories may not have endured, Webb’s essay sparked significant interest among European scholars, encouraging curiosity about Chinese civilization and language. It made an important contribution to the discourse of the era and had meaningful implications for Sino-European relations.
Webb’s thesis, a bold departure from the popular European views of his time, challenges the very foundations of linguistic history. He suggests that classical languages like Greek and Latin, long considered the earliest and most significant, may not hold that distinction . Instead, Webb presents compelling evidence that China had an unbroken historical record predating the Flood, a revolutionary and controversial proposition at the time.
At the heart of Webb’s inquiry lies a profound fascination with the Chinese l anguage and its ancient roots. One central pillar of his argument is the remarkable consistency and resilience of the Chinese l anguage across millennia, a testament to its enduring power. He evaluates the intricate structure of Chinese characters, each with layers of meaning and cultural significance. Through comparative analysis with other ancient languages, Webb highlights the unique features of Chinese that set it apart as a linguistic marvel.
Moreover, Webb explores the historical context surrounding the spread of the Chinese l anguage and culture, from the bustling trade routes of the Silk Road to the imperial courts of East Asia. He also ponders the profound role of l anguage in shaping human thought and identity, transcending barriers of time and space. Webb’s work fostered cultural exchanges between China and the West, fueling efforts to learn Chinese and translate Chinese texts into European languages, thereby impacting fields ranging from literature to diplomacy.
In an era marked by globalization and cultural exchange, Webb’s insights resonate deeply, reminding us of the enduring power of language to unite and inspire. His historical essay stands as a testament to the enduring quest for knowledge and understanding, inviting us to embark on an expedition of discovery into the fascinating world of history.
This book can be viewed at the Ron Anton Library for Chinese Studies at The Beijing Center by appointment only. Contact us at academics@thebeijingcenter.org to plan a visit, or see other highlights of the Historical Collection here.
By Laury Castro, TBC Intern
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