Exploring a rich tapestry of characters such as magicians, generals, and poets, this collection delves into the historical narratives of a nation. It reveals the interplay between past and present, illustrating how these tales inform contemporary culture. With themes of power, immortality, and the intricacies of palace life, the stories offer a profound insight into societal values and traditions, making it a compelling read for those interested in cultural heritage.
This book, first published in 1956, contains the stuff of other people’s memories. Thus you will read of magicians and immortals; of dragons and pills of eternal life; of generals and eunuchs; of emperors and poets; of palaces and concubines. The author has made nothing up; if there are liars along the route, they were there before he came along. The study of stories and ballads from deep in a country’s past can tell a reader much about the present-day culture of a society; this is surely true with these tales from China’s history.