Wilt L. Idema delves into the rich tradition of Chinese popular narrative ballads and the premodern Chinese women's literature. His stylistic mastery lies in his ability to bring classical Chinese texts to life for the contemporary reader, bridging centuries. Through his translation work, he makes the beauty and complexity of Chinese poetry and drama accessible, enriching the literary landscape with new perspectives.
Pure, orthodox and incorruptible, Judge Bao has been serving as the preeminent embodiment of justice in China for almost a thousand years, so much so his court cases have been adapted as stories, novels and plays over the centuries. This title offers a series of eight ballad-stories on Judge Bao, dating from the period 1250-1450.
Part of the Cambria Sinophone World Series, this book explores significant themes and cultural aspects within the Sinophone context, emphasizing the richness and diversity of Chinese-language literature and its global impact. Led by Victor Mair from the University of Pennsylvania, the series aims to enhance understanding of the Sinophone world through scholarly insights and engaging narratives.
This anthology offers a glimpse of women's writings not only in poetry but in other genres, including essays and letters, drama, religious writing and narrative fiction. These are presented within their respective biographical and historical contexts.
The resurgence of Chinese popular religion since the 1980s has led to the revival of precious scrolls used in rituals and entertainment, particularly in the economically advanced Wu-dialect regions and the impoverished areas of Western Gansu. These scrolls, once suppressed, are now being performed, collected, edited, and published, highlighting their significance in China's Intangible Cultural Heritage. This revival reflects a broader cultural renaissance and the reclamation of traditional practices in contemporary society.