Classical Chinese Novel Masterpiece: Journey to the West, Upper and Lower

Author: Wu Cheng'en
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2000-06-01
Features: The Journey to the West is an outstanding fantasy novel from the mid-Ming Dynasty. The entire book has one hundred chapters, with the first seven chapters describing the birth and chaos of Sun Wukong in Heaven, which is the most spectacular part of The Journey to the West. It subtly reflects the struggle of the peasant class against the landlord class in feudal society. Chapters eight to thirteen depict Wei Zheng slaying a dragon, Emperor Taizong descending into the underworld, Liu Quan offering melons, and Xuanzang being summoned to retrieve sacred scriptures. This section serves as preparation for the journey and plays an organizational role in the plot. Chapters fourteen to one hundred are the main narrative of the journey, describing Sun Wukong and Xuanzong, among others, enduring eighty-one trials. It highlights the strong resilience of the people in overcoming difficulties and their heroic spirit in conquering nature. The book has a humorous and witty tone, filled with optimism. The language is vivid, lively, concise, and powerful, with a touch of humor, aligning perfectly with the style and character traits of the work. This book has had a profound impact on the public life in China.