Translation of the given content to English: A Series of Translations and Annotations on Chinese Classical Novels (Third Series) -- Ruyi's Joy of Wit

Author: Tang Kesheng
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-06-01
Features: The Broad Jokes of the Forest covers a wide range of topics and diverse forms. It serves as an artistic expression for the people to criticize villains, expose darkness, and advise and educate others. Through a series of humorous stories, it vividly recreates the folk customs, human interests, social realities, and corrupt officialdom of feudal society. Readers will experience joy and satisfaction in laughter, ranging from belly-laughing to knowing smiles, from biting humor to laughing through tears, from serious and profound laughter to higher-level amusement, as well as from crude and instinctual laughter of lower levels. Laughter permeates all aspects of life. The Broad Jokes of the Forest differs from other classical works. Its language is relatively colloquial, so in the translation and annotations, only a few obscure or difficult words and phrases were explained. It also emphasizes the comic nature of the content, so the translation primarily relies on free translation, with direct translation used as much as possible. Through a series of lively and engaging jokes, readers are hoped to gain both enlightenment and education while enjoying a light-hearted artistic experience, which is beneficial to physical and mental health. At the same time, it helps readers expand their knowledge of classical literature. Due to its accessibility, it is particularly suitable for young people who are new to the world of Chinese classical literature.