Dragon Legend: The Complete Story

Author: Wu Xuan
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-06-01
Features: The Legend of the Flying Dragon consists of sixty chapters. Although it depicts an emperor who founded a dynasty, the main focus is on Zhao Kuangyin's rise to prominence during his youth before becoming emperor, showcasing a vivid and fleshed-out image of a streetwise hero to the readers. The author has infused the character with multiple qualities that the urban class identifies with an ideal figure: bold, rough, daring, righteous, protective of the weak and punitive of the strong, loyal, trustworthy, and a man of his word. This image carries a strong aura of folk literature and is a direct descendant of the heroic figures in Water Margin. In contrast to Zhao Kuangyin's character, Zheng En and Tao Sanchun have a comedic tone. Zheng En is rough, straightforward, gluttonous, loves wine, fearless, and a bit cunning with a sense of humor. Tao Sanchun, on the other hand, is a new female archetype—though unattractive in appearance, she has a kind heart, immense strength, and is bold and unrestrained, making her a beloved and influential character in later opera stages.