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New Medieval Books: New Stories Told while Trimming the Wick

New Stories Told while Trimming the Wick

By Qu You
Translated by Zhenjun Zhang, Sidney L. Sondergard, and Trever McKay

Oxford University Press
ISBN: 978-0-19-766877-1

This collection of 22 short stories from the early Ming Dynasty holds the distinction of being the first work of fiction ever banned in China. Fortunately, these tales—ranging from tender romances to eerie encounters with the supernatural—have survived for us to enjoy today.

Excerpt:

New Stories is known for its novel plots, unique style, and nuanced depictions – the latter two likely derived from the vernacular storytelling traditions. Furthermore, it offers fascinating insights into the life and society of the late Yuan (1271-1368) and early Ming (1368-1644), especially during the turmoil of the transition between the two dynasties.

Who is this book for?

Part of the new series The Hsu-Tang Library of Classical Chinese Literature, this volume is a welcome addition for anyone interested in Chinese literature, especially works from the Ming era. Readers drawn to medieval ghost stories will also find a few haunting tales within its pages.

The Translators

Zhenjun Zhang is Professor of Chinese and Coordinator of Asian Studies Program at St. Lawrence University. Sidney Sondergard is Piskor Professor Emeritus at St. Lawrence University. Trever McKay is Associate Professor of Chinese language and literature at Brigham Young University-Idaho.

You can learn more about this book from the publisher’s website.

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