Teach You to Understand the Marvels of Ancient and Modern Times (Part 1, Part 2)

Author: Gao Tan Culture
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2007-01-01
Features: Strange Stories from Ancient and Modern Times is a "storytelling novel," where "storytelling" refers to the draft of storytelling performances. At its core, it is merely a record of the storyteller's words. Yet, this is precisely where it excels in literature and storytelling art. Storytelling was a popular form of vernacular entertainment in the bustling streets of the Ming Dynasty. It was usually performed by a folk artist who could be considered a "story vendor," holding clappers and drums, reciting an "opening poem" to attract a crowd of spectators who would be captivated by his eloquence. It is a simple yet endlessly entertaining performance art. Although the grandeur of the performances has faded with the passage of time, you can still experience the pain of Du Shiniang throwing her treasures into the river through this book, laugh at Qiao Taigong's chaotic matchmaking, and marvel at Tang Bohu's charming encounter with Qiu Xianning. As time passes and eras change, the "modern" in Strange Stories from Ancient and Modern Times has become ancient, and the "ancient" has been pushed back by several centuries. However, even though the stories may seem absurd or outdated, the contradictions of human nature they depict remain timeless and are worth repeatedly exploring and reflecting upon. Therefore, we have picked them up from the dust of history and presented them to contemporary readers who are eager for stories.