(An Edifying Tale)

Author: Feng Menglong
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-01-01
Features: A collection of short stories compiled by Feng Menglong during the late Ming Dynasty, published between 1624 and 1627. "Yushi Mingyan," "Jingshi Tongyan," and "Xingshi Hengyan" are collectively known as the "Three Canons," which include forty short stories. Among them are tales about historical figures from previous generations, as well as those that inherit the style of Song and Yuan dynasty storytelling. These stories reflect the specific social phenomenon of the gradual decline of the landlord class and the rise of the urban class during the Yuan and Ming dynasties, earning widespread popularity among the people at the time. The "Three Canons" also made many artistic innovations. Compared to the storytelling of the Song and Yuan dynasties, they feature more detailed descriptions, a focus on psychological portrayal, increasingly complete structures, and more intricate and engaging plots. Many of these works have become treasures in the treasure trove of Chinese fiction.