Journey to the West (Volumes 1 and 2) (Includes 1 CD-ROM)

Author: Wu Cheng'en (Ming Dynasty)
Publisher:
Publishing Date: August 1, 2003
Features: The Journey to the West is a 100-capter novel with 820,000 words, narrating the story of Sun Wukong's rebellion in Heaven and the four disciples of Tang Sanzang's 81 trials on their journey to the West to seek the True Scriptures. The story can be divided into three parts: the first seven chapters describe Sun Wukong's origins; chapters 8 to 12 introduce Tang Sanzang's background and the reasons for his pilgrimage; chapters 13 to the end detail the entire journey and the return to enlightenment. The Journey to the West, though written in a mythological form, carries profound real-life significance, reflecting rich social content. It can be described as "truth within illusion," "fun within illusion," and "reality within illusion," filled with the essence of real life and expressing ideological tendencies deeply connected to the desires of ordinary people. The Journey to the West is a book that is both easy and difficult to read. It is easy to read because its surface story is vivid and captivating, requiring no deep contemplation to enchant the reader. Even children with basic literacy can be drawn to its magnificent plot. It is difficult to read, however, because its deeper meanings are extremely rich, and those unfamiliar with the world may struggle to appreciate its witty and enduring satire on life. The Journey to the West holds an important place in the history of Chinese fiction. It is a outstanding representative of Ming Dynasty mythological fiction and has become a classic novel beloved by the Chinese people. Since its publication, it has had a wide-ranging influence, with numerous sequels and supplements appearing during the Ming and Qing dynasties. As part of traditional Chinese culture, The Journey to the West will retain its enduring charm.