Shi Nai'an is recognized as the attributed compiler of a seminal work in Chinese literature, one of its most celebrated classical novels. His contribution offers profound insights into the societal dynamics and narrative traditions of his time. Despite scant biographical details, the enduring impact and literary significance of his writings are undeniable. His distinctive narrative style and thematic depth solidify his place as a foundational figure in Chinese literary history.
Although Song Jiang is only a lowly local government official, he is loyal to the emperor and kind to all the citizens in his care. But Song is in trouble. A series of unfortunate incidents have led to him being arrested, and his political enemies are keen to see him sentenced to death.
China's great classic novel Outlaws of the Marsh, written in the fourteenth century, is a fictional account of twelfth-century events during the Song Dynasty. One by one, over a hundred men and women are forced by the harsh feudal officialdom to take to the hills. They band together and defeat every attempt of the government troops to crush them. Within this framework we find intrigue, adventure, murder, warfare, romance ... in a connected series of fascinating individual tales, told in the suspenseful manner of the traditional storyteller.
Der Roman spielt zur Zeit der Sòng-Dynastie und erzählt von Sòng Jiāng und seinem Bund, der gegen Korruption kämpft. Er thematisiert traditionelle Werte des Neokonfuzianismus und bietet reichhaltige, naturalistische Beschreibungen der Gesellschaft. Die ungekürzte Übersetzung umfasst 2000 Seiten mit umfassenden Erläuterungen.