Peach Blossom Fan

Author: Kong Shangren (Qing Dynasty) wrote, Wu Shuyin edited and annotated
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 1997-03-01
Features: The Peach Blossom Fan is a representative work of Qing Dynasty drama. Through the love story between Hou Chaozong, a literati of the Fushu Society, and Li Xiangjun, a famous courtesan of Qinhuai, the play reflects the fall of the Southern Ming Hongguang Dynasty, capturing the essence of "using the theme of separation and reunion to express the sentiments of rise and fall." Based on historical facts, the play spans from the 16th year of the Chongzhen era of the Ming Dynasty (1643) to the 2nd year of the Shunzhi era of the Qing Dynasty (1645), beginning with Li Zicheng's rebellion capturing Beijing and the Chongzhen Emperor's suicide on Coal Mountain, and ending with the Shunzhi Emperor recruiting recluses from the mountains and forests. It relatively authentically portrays the complex contradictions of this historical period, aiming to reveal the reasons for the fall of the Hongguang Dynasty and allow readers to understand the historical lessons of its collapse—thus, as the author stated, "not only making the audience deeply moved, but also serving as a warning to the hearts of people in the twilight of the age."