Zhao the Orphan (English Edition): A Chinese Tragedy of Revenge, Sacrifice & the “Chinese Hamlet”

Dive into the Epic Drama of Loyalty and Revenge

Zhao the Orphan is a classic Chinese play from the Yuan Dynasty (13th century), attributed to the playwright Ji Junxiang. It tells the gripping story of the Zhao family, a powerful clan in ancient China’s State of Jin, who are falsely accused and brutally massacred by the treacherous minister Tu’an Gu. -2-5

The sole survivor is an infant, the "Zhao the Orphan," who is saved at a great personal cost by a loyal family friend, Cheng Ying, who sacrifices his own son to protect the child. The story follows the orphan's perilous journey to adulthood, raised in the shadow of his enemy, as he secretly plots to avenge his family's name. -9-12

Why This Book is a Must-Have:

• A Masterpiece of World Literature: This is the very first Chinese play to be translated and known in Europe. It famously inspired the great French philosopher Voltaire to write his own five-act play, The Orphan of China, sparking a major cultural dialogue between East and West. -5-9

• Expertly Retold for English Readers: This edition is edited and translated by the famous translator Wang Guozhen. The story is presented in accessible, engaging English, making the complex history and drama easy to follow. -9-12

• Part of the "Chinese Classics Stories" Series: This book is part of a renowned collection designed to introduce the core stories of Chinese literature and history to foreign readers in a vivid and concise format. -3-10

• Beautiful Hardcover Edition: This is a high-quality, beautifully bound hardcover book of 164 pages, making it a perfect addition to any personal library or a wonderful gift for those interested in Chinese culture and history.