"Folktales of Old China" provides the reader with an introduction into the vast treasure-house of Chinese legends, myths, and popular folklore, and serves as an “insider’s guide” into the stories behind the names, places, plots, characters, and cultural characteristics beloved to Chinese civilization. Included are some of China’s most beloved folk tales including White Snake, Liang Shanbo and Zhu Yingtai, Hua Mulan, and stories from Romance of the Three Kingdoms and A Dream of Red Mansions, among many others. Presenting plot summaries as well as comprehensive thematic discussion and analysis, this volume serves as a guidebook of ancient tales that reflect both oral and written Chinese cultural traditions. Some stories are well known to the Chinese who have heard them since childhood; some are waiting to be discovered by a new generation of readers. This book will be of interest to anyone wanting to learn more about the fascinating world of Chinese literature and culture.
