Unfathomable Dreams of the Red Chamber: Cao Xueqin in Xiangshan: Cao Xueqin in Xiangshan

Author: Hu Deping
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-04-01
Features: Two hundred years of Red Study research has seen a new development since the rise of "Cao Studies." Therefore, to truly understand Dream of the Red Chamber, one must comprehend Cao Xueqin. However, since Hu Shi, down to contemporary red scholars, although much has been discovered about Cao Xueqin's life, what remains unknown is even greater. This book begins with the discovery of the old house at No. 29, Zhengbazi Village, Xiangshan, Beijing, and further uncovers the yellow pine bookcase of Cao Xueqin's wife, Fangqing. It then connects with Cao Xueqin's other work, Drafts from the Waste Art Studio, the poetry and prose of the Jiangning Silk Manufacturing Office's "Bai Dai Guan Zhai," the Banner system, and local inscriptions and legends from Xiangshan. Finally, it ties the whole together with Cao Xueqin's life attitude and philosophical thoughts, forming a seamless chain of irrefutable evidence, providing red study enthusiasts with a deep pathway to interpret Cao Xueqin's life and thoughts. The author possesses a broad perspective, a grand vision, profound knowledge, and wisdom. His writing is insightful and effortlessly traverses fields of history, legend, politics, economy, and culture, making it highly readable and embodying the demeanor of a true scholar.