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Stories Enlightening the World (English Edition): 40 Ming Dynasty Tales of Love, Justice & the Supernatural

Stories Enlightening the World (English Edition): 40 Ming Dynasty Tales of Love, Justice & the Supernatural

From “Yu Boya Smashes His Zither” and “Du Shiniang Throws Her Valuables in River” to “White Snake Detained in Thunder Peak Tower” — 40 Classic Tales Retold for English Readers
This book collects 40 short stories from Ming dynasty China, retold in clear English for readers who want the stories without the full classical text. You meet Yu Boya, who smashes his zither after his only true listener dies; Du Shiniang, a courtesan who throws her jewel box into the river rather than be sold; the White Snake, trapped under Thunder Peak Pagoda; Li Bai, who awes foreign envoys with a single piece of writing; and Bao Zheng, who solves cases with the help of a ghost. Some are love stories, some are crime stories, and some bring ghosts and immortals onto the page. They were written for ordinary readers in the 1620s, and they still move quickly today. If you want to read the kind of stories Chinese people have enjoyed for four hundred years—rather than study an academic history of Ming fiction or read a full scholarly translation—this is it.
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Detail

  • Bilingual Edition: Presents classic Chinese text side-by-side with an English translation, ideal for language learners and culture enthusiasts.

  • Timeless Tales: Features a collection of Feng Menglong’s most famous short stories, exploring themes of loyalty, love, and human nature.

  • Cultural Insight: Offers a vivid window into the social life, customs, and philosophies of ancient China.

  • Quality Publication: Published by China Intercontinental Press (五洲传播出版社), renowned for promoting Chinese culture globally.

About the Author:
Feng Menglong (1574–1646) was a towering figure in Chinese literature. He is best known for his "Three Words" trilogy – a landmark collection of vernacular short stories that have captivated readers for centuries. His works are celebrated for their lively storytelling, memorable characters, and sharp observations of society.

Why You'll Love This Book:
Whether you are a student of the Chinese language, a lover of world literature, or simply a curious reader, this book offers an authentic and engaging experience. It is not just a reading journey; it is a cultural exploration that will enrich your understanding of China's literary heritage.

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