Cao Yin and Kangxi: Unveiling the Life of an Imperial Favorite

Author: Jonathan Spence
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-05-01
Features: In the West, there is a renowned sinologist who has been tirelessly striving to seek answers to modern China from the long river of Chinese history. He is Jonathan Spence, the president of the American Historical Association and a professor at Yale University—a sinologist who admires the ancient Chinese historian Sima Qian. Spence's study of Chinese history follows both the tradition of Western sinological research, which emphasizes the examination of individual historical cases, and often employs grand historical narratives to carry forward his research findings. As a result, his works not only attract academic attention but are also frequently bestsellers among the general public. This is truly remarkable. For this time, we have introduced and published the majority of Spence's works, hoping to draw the attention of the domestic historical academia and the broader reading public. While we may not fully agree with many of Spence's views on Chinese history, we hope to broaden perspectives and promote academic and cultural exchange through this. As a rigorously researched academic monograph, this book provides a detailed argument and introduction to the life of Cao Xueqin, the grandfather of the author of Dream of the Red Chamber, Cao Yin. It vividly recreates Cao Yin's secret life as a courtier and spy for the Kangxi Emperor, reflecting the suspicious and cunning nature of the emperor, the ruling strategies of the Qing Dynasty, and the unique relationship between the emperor and his officials. It also brings to life the political, economic, and social scenes of the Qing Dynasty.