Maozhi Xue

Author: Park Yu
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2000-01-01
Features: This book primarily depicts events that occurred in the Qing court during the Guangxu era. The protagonist, Zhen Fei, suffers the jealousy of the Empress due to the Emperor's favoritism, which leads to a series of stories. The plot is intricate, and the language is highly evocative, set against a historical backdrop. The book is roughly divided into the following parts:
1. Before the Guangxu wedding, the Hall of Supreme Harmony was struck by fire, casting a shadow of misfortune over the celebration.
2. The Guangxu Emperor was forced to make Cixi's niece his Empress.
3. Cixi deliberately sought to curry favor with Zhen Fei.
4. Even after taking power, the Guangxu Emperor remained under Cixi's constant control.
5. Zhen Fei was favored by the Emperor, while the Empress felt deeply resentful.
6. The Empress's failed attempt to report Zhen Fei deepened their animosity.
7. Zhen Fei took a photograph in men's attire, sparking a major scandal.
8. Eunuchs sold official positions and privileges in Zhen Fei's name.
9. Due to the Guangxu Emperor's exceptional promotion of Wen Tingshi, Cixi grew increasingly resentful of Zhen Fei.
10. The internal turmoil in Joseon provided Japan with an opportunity to launch an invasion of China.