The Romance of the Yang Family and the Legend of Tang and Song Heroes

Author: (Ming) Xiong Damu, written by Wang Zhongzhou, illustrated by Li Hao, compiled by Li Hao
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2003-01-01
Features: The Romance of the Yang Family vividly depicts the heroic achievements of four generations of the Yang family in resisting foreign invasions. It begins with Yang Ye being trapped in a dungeon and dying after colliding with the Liling Stele, and ends with the 12 widows of the Yang family successfully conquering the enemy and returning victorious in the west. It is filled with an uplifting patriotic passion, praising the heroic spirit of the Yang family, who faced adversity head-on and remained fearless in the face of death. The story of the 12 widows inheriting their ancestors' and leading troops into battle is particularly touching. However, despite their unwavering loyalty, they suffer relentless persecution from treacherous officials, prompting deep reflection. It is not a historical romance, as many of its main plots lack historical evidence, but instead brims with a strong sense of mythology, featuring supernatural elements like summoning wind and rain, turning beans into soldiers, and excessive descriptions of superstition and the supernatural. This traditional piece has been widely circulated and remains popular, especially in genres like storytelling and clapper singing, where it continues to be performed with enduring appeal.