Essence of The Scholars

Author: Wu Jingzi (Qing Dynasty)
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2001-12-01
Features: This book is a part of the "Classic Chinese Reading Series" and is titled "Essentials of The Story of the Stone." The stories in this book are more concentrated and refined compared to the original, omitting many plotlines that are not central to the historical narrative and discarding some unclear or less appropriate statements from the original. As a result, it is more suitable for young readers. The book focuses on the attitude toward "success and wealth" and, through a series of stories, reveals how the imperial examination system and the eight-legged essay gradually lead people to degrade into name-seeking and fame-chasing mediocrities, even into ungrateful scoundrels. It also portrays various types of scholars and literati, with the scholars being particularly vivid and lifelike. This book is not only a widely circulated novel in China but also a world-class literary masterpiece. Since the late 19th century, it has been translated into various languages, including English, French, German, Russian, Japanese, and Vietnamese.