10.2 The four great classical novels, with focus on Journey to the West
4 min read•august 6, 2024
Chinese literature reached new heights during the with the emergence of the Four Great Classical Novels. These masterpieces, including , blended history, , and philosophy into captivating narratives that continue to shape Chinese culture.
Journey to the West stands out for its vivid characters and allegorical depth. The tale of a monk's pilgrimage to India, accompanied by supernatural beings, explores themes of spiritual growth and enlightenment while entertaining readers with fantastical adventures and humor.
The Four Great Classical Novels
Renowned Works of Chinese Literature
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- Journey to the West (Xi You Ji) follows the legendary pilgrimage of the Tang dynasty Buddhist monk Xuanzang who traveled to the "Western Regions" of Central Asia and India to obtain Buddhist sacred texts (sūtras) and returned after many trials and much suffering
- Romance of the Three Kingdoms is a 14th-century historical novel attributed to Luo Guanzhong, set in the turbulent years towards the end of the Han dynasty and the Three Kingdoms period in Chinese history, starting in 169 AD and ending with the reunification of the land in 280
- Water Margin, also translated as Outlaws of the Marsh, is a 14th-century novel attributed to Shi Nai'an, detailing the trials and tribulations of 108 outlaws during the Song dynasty
- , also known as The Story of the Stone, is an 18th-century novel by Cao Xueqin that chronicles the rise and decline of the Jia family and is renowned for its precise and detailed observation of the life and social structures typical of 18th-century Chinese aristocracy
Significance and Influence
- These four novels are considered the pinnacle of classical Chinese fiction, known for their masterful storytelling, vivid characters, and profound themes
- They have had a lasting impact on Chinese culture and literature, inspiring countless adaptations, retellings, and scholarly studies
- The novels provide invaluable insights into Chinese history, philosophy, religion, and social norms, offering a window into the rich cultural heritage of China
- Their influence extends beyond China, with translations and adaptations in various languages, making them an integral part of world literature
Journey to the West: Characters and Authorship
Wu Cheng'en and the Novel's Creation
- , a Ming dynasty novelist and poet, is credited with writing Journey to the West, drawing inspiration from historical accounts, folk tales, and religious texts
- The novel is believed to have been written in the 16th century, during the late Ming dynasty, though the exact date of composition remains uncertain
- Wu Cheng'en's life and other works, such as "The Petition of the Female Immortal," provide context for understanding his literary style and themes
Central Characters and Their Roles
- Monkey King (), a powerful and mischievous monkey born from a stone, who becomes a disciple of and aids him on his journey while battling his own impulsive nature
- Tang Sanzang, a Buddhist monk tasked with retrieving sacred scriptures from India, who represents piety, perseverance, and the struggle against temptation
- (Pigsy), a gluttonous and lustful pig demon who becomes Tang Sanzang's disciple and provides comic relief throughout the journey
- (Sandy), a reformed sand demon who joins Tang Sanzang as a disciple and serves as a loyal and dependable companion
Mythological Creatures and Their Significance
- The novel features a vast array of mythological creatures, including demons, spirits, and gods, drawn from and Buddhist cosmology
- These creatures often serve as obstacles or allies to the protagonists, representing various aspects of human nature and the challenges faced on the path to enlightenment
- Examples include the Bull Demon King, the Iron Fan Princess, and the Jade Emperor, each with their own unique powers and symbolism
- The interaction between the characters and these mythological beings highlights the novel's themes of spiritual growth, the struggle between good and evil, and the attainment of wisdom
Literary Elements and Themes in Journey to the West
Allegorical Interpretation and Religious Themes
- Journey to the West can be read as an for the journey towards enlightenment, with each character and event representing aspects of Buddhist philosophy
- The novel incorporates Buddhist themes, such as the importance of self-discipline, the pursuit of wisdom, and the overcoming of desires and attachments
- Tang Sanzang's journey symbolizes the path to enlightenment, with the various trials and temptations he faces representing the obstacles one must overcome to attain spiritual liberation
- The novel also critiques religious hypocrisy and corruption, as seen in the portrayal of false monks and corrupt temples encountered along the journey
Daoist Elements and Influence
- In addition to Buddhist themes, Journey to the West also incorporates elements of Daoism, another major Chinese philosophical and religious tradition
- The character of Monkey King embodies Daoist ideals of spontaneity, naturalness, and the pursuit of immortality
- The novel's depiction of the interplay between Heaven, Earth, and humanity reflects the Daoist concept of the Three Realms and the harmony between these spheres
- Daoist magical practices and the concept of cultivating inner power (qi) are also prevalent throughout the story, as seen in the characters' supernatural abilities and transformations
Episodic Structure and Narrative Techniques
- Journey to the West is structured as a series of episodes, each detailing a specific adventure or challenge faced by the protagonists on their journey
- This episodic structure allows for a wide range of stories, characters, and themes to be explored, while maintaining an overarching narrative of spiritual growth and enlightenment
- The novel employs various narrative techniques, such as humor, , and hyperbole, to engage readers and convey its messages
- The use of poetry, proverbs, and literary allusions throughout the text adds depth and complexity to the storytelling, showcasing the author's literary prowess and the rich cultural context of the Ming dynasty
Key Terms to Review (19)
Adaptations in film and television: Adaptations in film and television refer to the process of transforming stories from other media, such as literature, into visual formats for screen presentation. This transformation often involves reinterpreting characters, settings, and plotlines to suit the cinematic medium, while still aiming to retain the core themes and narratives of the original work. Adaptations can also introduce new elements that resonate with contemporary audiences, making classic stories more accessible and relevant.
Allegory: Allegory is a narrative technique in which characters, events, and details symbolize deeper meanings and moral lessons. It often presents a story on two levels: the literal and the symbolic, allowing for social commentary and critique within the narrative. This layered storytelling is particularly significant in literature, where it can illuminate philosophical ideas and cultural values.
Buddhism vs. Taoism: Buddhism and Taoism are two influential spiritual traditions that originated in Asia, each with distinct beliefs and practices. Buddhism, founded by Siddhartha Gautama in the 5th century BCE, emphasizes the Four Noble Truths and the path to enlightenment through overcoming suffering. In contrast, Taoism, rooted in the teachings of Laozi, focuses on living in harmony with the Tao, or the natural way of the universe, promoting simplicity and spontaneity. Both philosophies play significant roles in shaping cultural narratives and characters in classical Chinese literature, including in works like Journey to the West.
Chinese folklore: Chinese folklore encompasses the rich traditions, myths, legends, and oral stories that have been passed down through generations in Chinese culture. This body of folklore often reflects the values, beliefs, and practices of various communities, intertwining moral lessons with fantastical elements. Folklore plays a crucial role in shaping cultural identity and is a significant influence on literature, particularly evident in classic works such as Journey to the West.
Dream of the Red Chamber: Dream of the Red Chamber, written by Cao Xueqin in the 18th century, is one of China's greatest classical novels, exploring themes of love, family, and the decline of a noble family. It intricately combines elements of reality and dreams to reflect on social hierarchies, personal desires, and the fleeting nature of life.
Historical fiction: Historical fiction is a literary genre that blends fictional storytelling with real historical events, characters, and settings to create an engaging narrative. This genre often seeks to illuminate the past by providing insights into the lives and experiences of people during specific historical periods while balancing fact and creativity.
Influence on Chinese Opera: The influence on Chinese opera refers to the ways in which various cultural, literary, and historical elements have shaped the development of this unique performance art over centuries. This influence is particularly evident in how classical literature, especially the four great classical novels, has provided narratives, characters, and themes that enrich operatic performances. Notably, 'Journey to the West' stands out as a crucial source of inspiration, introducing iconic figures and adventures that have become central to many operatic adaptations.
Journey to the West: Journey to the West is a 16th-century Chinese novel attributed to Wu Cheng'en that tells the tale of the monk Xuánzàng's pilgrimage to India to retrieve Buddhist scriptures, accompanied by three protectors: the mischievous Monkey King, Sun Wukong, the gluttonous pig, Zhu Bajie, and the quiet monk, Sha Wujing. This epic narrative is one of the four great classical novels of Chinese literature and explores themes of loyalty, friendship, and the quest for enlightenment.
Ming Dynasty: The Ming Dynasty was a major Chinese imperial dynasty that ruled from 1368 to 1644, known for its cultural and political achievements, including the restoration of Confucian values and expansion of trade. This period is significant in Chinese history as it marked the height of traditional Chinese culture, with advancements in arts, literature, and exploration.
Monkey King's Staff: The Monkey King's Staff, also known as the Ruyi Jingu Bang, is a magical weapon wielded by the character Sun Wukong in 'Journey to the West.' This staff is capable of changing size, growing to immense proportions or shrinking to a small size, making it a versatile tool in battle. Its significance extends beyond mere combat, symbolizing the Monkey King's strength, adaptability, and resourcefulness throughout his adventures.
Mythology: Mythology refers to a collection of traditional stories or legends that explain natural phenomena, cultural practices, and historical events through supernatural elements, deities, and heroes. These narratives serve to convey moral lessons, cultural values, and the beliefs of a society. In many literary works, including important classical novels, mythology plays a crucial role in shaping characters, plotlines, and themes.
Satire: Satire is a literary technique that uses humor, irony, and exaggeration to criticize or mock individuals, institutions, or societal norms. It aims to provoke thought and encourage change by highlighting the flaws and absurdities in its subjects. This form of expression can be found in various genres, including novels and short stories, where it often serves to reflect cultural values and social issues.
Sha wujing: Sha wujing, also known as 'Sand Monks,' refers to the character Sha Wujing from the classic Chinese novel 'Journey to the West.' He is one of the main disciples of the monk Xuanzang on his quest to retrieve sacred Buddhist texts. Sha Wujing embodies themes of redemption and loyalty, transitioning from a fearsome river monster to a devoted follower who helps his master on the pilgrimage.
Spiritual journey: A spiritual journey refers to the inner quest for personal growth, self-discovery, and enlightenment, often through trials and experiences that challenge one's beliefs and values. It connects deeply with themes of transformation and redemption, frequently featuring quests or travels that symbolize the search for deeper meaning in life. This concept is vividly illustrated in narratives where characters face obstacles that lead to profound insights about themselves and the universe.
Sun Wukong: Sun Wukong, also known as the Monkey King, is a central character in the classic Chinese novel 'Journey to the West.' He is a mischievous, powerful figure known for his supernatural abilities, including immense strength, agility, and the ability to transform into various forms. Sun Wukong's journey from rebellious trickster to devoted disciple serves as a crucial narrative arc that explores themes of redemption and enlightenment.
Tang Sanzang: Tang Sanzang, also known as Tripitaka or Xuánzàng, is a central character in the Chinese classic 'Journey to the West.' He is a Buddhist monk on a pilgrimage to retrieve sacred texts from India, symbolizing the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment and wisdom. His character represents themes of piety, determination, and the quest for knowledge, and he plays a vital role in the story alongside his supernatural companions.
The journey to obtain scriptures: The journey to obtain scriptures refers to the legendary pilgrimage undertaken by the monk Xuánzàng in the 7th century to retrieve Buddhist texts from India. This quest, framed within the context of 'Journey to the West,' symbolizes spiritual pursuit, perseverance, and the quest for knowledge and enlightenment, capturing the essence of Chinese folklore and its emphasis on moral and philosophical teachings.
Wu cheng'en: Wu Cheng'en was a Chinese novelist and poet, best known for writing 'Journey to the West,' one of the four great classical novels of Chinese literature. His work blends elements of mythology, folklore, and Buddhist teachings, creating a rich narrative that explores themes of adventure, enlightenment, and the struggle between good and evil. Wu's storytelling has had a profound impact on Chinese culture and literature, making him a central figure in the understanding of premodern literary traditions.
Zhu bajie: Zhu Bajie, also known as Pigsy, is a central character in the classic Chinese novel 'Journey to the West'. He is depicted as a pig-human hybrid with a gluttonous and lustful personality, serving as one of the key companions to the monk Xuanzang on his pilgrimage to retrieve sacred scriptures. His character embodies both comic relief and deeper themes of redemption and transformation throughout the narrative.