The Power of Novels: Best-selling, thought-provoking Chinese novels explore a range of human experiences

1. Introduction: Best-selling, thought-provoking Chinese novels explore a range of human experiences

From the early days of China’s history, novels have been used to entertain, educate and enlighten readers about the human experience. Highly acclaimed works such as Lu Xun’s “A Madness of Cannibalism” and Cao Xueqin’s “The Story of the Stone” are no exception.

Both novels are set in different periods of China’s past, but they deal with similar themes of tradition, family and rituals. In “A Madness of Cannibalism”, Lu Xun criticizes the blind belief in traditional practices and the huge importance placed on family rituals. Cao Xueqin’s “The Story of the Stone”, on the other hand, subverts idealistic Confucian notions about the family.

While both novels offer valuable insights into Chinese society and culture, they also raise important questions about the role of novels in modern society. Do they merely reflect reality, or do they have the power to change it?

2. Lu Xun’s “A Madness of Cannibalism”: A battle against traditional practices and family rituals

“A Madness of Cannibalism” is a short story written by Chinese author Lu Xun in 1924. The story is set in a small village in China during a time when cannibalism was still practiced.

The story revolves around two brothers, one of whom has just returned home after studying in Japan. The brother who studied abroad is shocked to see that his younger brother has been taken part in a cannibalistic ritual.

The older brother is horrified by what he sees and decides to fight against the traditional practices of his village. He starts a campaign to educate the villagers about the dangers of cannibalism and eventually succeeds in stopping the practice.

“A Madness of Cannibalism” is a powerful story that highlights the importance of breaking away from tradition. It also raises important questions about the role of family traditions and rituals.

3. Cao Xueqin’s “The Story of the Stone”: Subverting idealistic Confucian notions about the family

“The Story of the Stone” is a Chinese novel written by Cao Xueqin in the 18th century. The novel is set in China during the Qing dynasty and tells the story of Bao-yu, a member of a rich and powerful family.

Bao-yu is different from other members of his family because he does not conform to their expectations. He does not care about power or money and instead chooses to follow his own heart. As a result, Bao-yu often finds himself at odds with his family members.

Although “The Story of the Stone” is set in China’s past, it deals with issues that are still relevant today. The novel challenges idealistic notions about family life and instead paints a more realistic picture of relationships within families.

4. Conclusion: These novels offer valuable insights into Chinese society and culture

Lu Xun’s “A Madness of Cannibalism” and Cao Xueqin’s “The Story of the Stone” are two highly acclaimed Chinese novels that offer valuable insights into Chinese society and culture. Both stories deal with

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