This study investigates the rhetorical function of Chinese modal particles (MPs) as shown in Liu Xie's Wen Xin Diao Long (《文心雕龙》, ca.501), through the lens of Kenneth Burke's "identification" theory.While previous research has primarily focused on the semantic and syntactic functions of MPs in ancient Chinese, their rhetorical role remains underexplored.By employing the text analysis tool AntConc v3.5.7, this research identifies "也" (ye), "矣" (yi), and "夫" (fu) as the most frequently used MPs in Liu Xie's treatise, with occurrences of 534, 228, and 139, respectively.These particles, when paired with rhetorical figures such as repetition, antithesis, and rhetorical question, create compelling rhythms that greatly enhance reader engagement and facilitate identification with the writer.The analysis reveals that "也" (ye) together with repetition or antithesis effectively creates a rhythm that draws readers into a ready acceptance of the writer's viewpoints."矣" (yi), often found in four-character clauses, complements sentences and enhances melody."夫" (fu), typically used at the beginning of sentences, conveys the writer's confidence and deeply engages readers, when combined with antithesis or rhetorical question.The findings indicate that these modal particles play a crucial role in creating a rhythmic structure that bridges the gap between the writer and reader, thus strengthening the power of identification.Furthermore, this inquiry not only demonstrates how rhythm serves as a non-verbal means of achieving identification by unawareness, but also offers an innovative approach to studying ancient Chinese texts via Western rhetorical theory.The present research examines only one Chinese classic, which may not fully represent the use of MPs across all ancient Chinese texts.Future studies may investigate varied Chinese classics to explore more of MPs' rhetorical functions.
