Master Wuku

Author: Yao Shangyou
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-11-12
Features: This book depicts the tragic fate of Fang Yizhi, a pioneer of the Tongcheng literary school during the Ming and Qing dynasties, a synthesizer of Chinese culture, a forerunner of "Li Shu Tong," and one of the leaders of the Fushu Society, as he transformed from a romantic scholar into a renowned monk. It reflects the inner journey of Chinese literati during a period of upheaval and the changes in the era. Fang Yizhi was the leader of the Fang family's literary group at the White Deer Villa. As a thinker, he was known as one of the "Four Great Thinkers of the Late Ming" alongside Gu Yanwu, Huang Zongxi, and Wang Fuzhi. As a scientist, he wrote China's first physics book in the 17th century and achieved top scientific achievements at the time. As a politician, he devoted himself wholeheartedly to the Chongzhen, Hongguang, and Yongli dynasties and witnessed the downfall of the Ming Dynasty firsthand. As a romantic and talented scholar, he was known as one of the "Four Gentlemen of Jinling" alongside Hou Fangyu, Mao Xiang, and Chen Zhenhui, renowned for their charm in the Qinhuai River. As a monk, he lived in Buddhist monasteries, embracing Confucian and Mencian teachings while also embodying the wisdom of Zhuangzi and Laozi, becoming a master of his generation. The entire work features a grand structure, powerful momentum, intricate plots, numerous characters, distinct personalities, elegant tone, refined language, and rich flavors. It is a "new historical novel" that blends intellectual depth, academic rigor, historical authenticity, and artistic excellence. It is rich in philosophical poetry, modern aesthetic sensibilities, and elegant cultural demeanor, showcasing the vibrant essence of traditional Chinese culture and the new trends in contemporary literary fiction.