Liu Xinwu reviewed. Dai Guobang illustrated Jin Ping Mei character genealogy

Author: Dai Dунбэн, Liu Xinwu
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-04-01
Features: The authors primarily depict in this book which of the three female protagonists in The Golden Lotus—Li Ping'er, Pan Jinlian, and Pang Chunmei—can better capture the readers' interest. Among them, the one whose relationship with Ximen Qing is described as having love that transcends physical desire is particularly compelling. "And this lustful man, Ximen Qing, also shows his gentleness, tolerance, and kindness in his love for her, making him appear more human." When evaluating Pan Jinlian, he states, "She is portrayed as a 'sexual being' who is constantly indulging in lust, and in her characterization, it is inevitable that she lacks 'simplicity.' Although her personality is vividly depicted." As for Pang Chunmei, this "major character" accounting for one-fifth of the entire book, the authors believe, "Her series of actions constitute a blatant mockery and ruthless deconstruction of traditional Confucian ethics in that decadent urban society."