"This collection of 22 short stories from the early Ming Dynasty holds the distinction of being the first work of fiction ever banned in China. Fortunately, these tales-ranging from tender romances to eerie encounters with the supernatural-have survived for us to enjoy today. New Stories is known for its novel plots, unique style, and nuanced depictions - the latter two likely derived from the vernacular storytelling traditions."
"Furthermore, it offers fascinating insights into the life and society of the late Yuan (1271-1368) and early Ming (1368-1644), especially during the turmoil of the transition between the two dynasties. Part of the new series The Hsu-Tang Library of Classical Chinese Literature, this volume is a welcome addition for anyone interested in Chinese literature, especially works from the Ming era. Readers drawn to medieval ghost stories will also find a few haunting tales within its pages."
Twenty-two early Ming Dynasty short stories present tender romances, eerie supernatural encounters, and inventive plotlines. Stories portray unique stylistic qualities and nuanced social depictions influenced by vernacular storytelling traditions. Narratives capture life and society during the late Yuan and early Ming, especially amid the turbulent dynastic transition. Historically, the material achieved notoriety as the first fiction banned in China yet survived to influence later literature. Readers interested in Ming-era Chinese literature and medieval ghost stories gain cultural insight and a variety of haunting, emotionally rich tales.
Read at Medievalists.net
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