評書(storytelling)是一種中國傳統口頭講說的表演形式,是我國勞動人民創造的一種口頭(oral)文學,在宋代開始流行。評書通常由一個說書人講述一個故事,這個故事往往改編自歷史事件、著名小說等。除了講故事外,說書人還會對人物作出評價,辨明是非。收音機和電視的普及,特別是電子媒介的發展為評書提供了極大的生存空間。評書是一種很便利的娛樂形式,它給人們的生活帶來了很多的消遣(relaxation)和娛樂。
Storytelling is a traditional Chinese performance in the form of oral speaking and a kind of oral literature created by the working people of our country. It became popular in the Song Dynasty. Generally, a storyteller tells us a story usually adapted from historic events, famous novels and so on. Besides, he may also comment on the characters in the story and distinguish right from wrong. The popularity of radio and TV, especially the development of electronic media provides a great living space for storytelling. Storytelling is a convenient form of entertainment and it brings much relaxation and a lot of fun to people’s life.