Golden Age of Chinese Drama - Yuan Tsa-Chu

The 171 extant plays of the Yuan period (1279-1368) are the oldest and most brilliant examples of Chinese dramatic literature. In this first comprehensive study, Chung-wen Shih systematically explores the riches of Yuan drama, from its unexcelled lyric poetry to its colorful characterization. After tracing the popular genres that contributed to the flowering of Yuan drama, the author describes conventional features of dramatic construction, methods of characterization, and recurring themes. The central focus is on the use of language: prose passages and lyrics are cited to show how innovative use of spoken language invests the prose with a remarkable strength and suppleness, and how imaginative use of figurative language endows the poetry with an incomparable richness of texture. Attention is also given to the use of music and physical aspects of staging.

Originally published in 1976.

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About the author

Chung-wen Shih

Summary

The 171 extant plays of the Yuan period (1279-1368) are the oldest and most brilliant examples of Chinese dramatic literature. In this first comprehensive study, Chung-wen Shih systematically explores the riches of Yuan drama, from its unexcelled lyric poetry to its colorful characterization. After tracing the popular genres that contributed to the

Product details

• Authors: Chung-wen Shih
• Publisher: Princeton University Press
• Languages: English
• Product format: Paperback / Softback
• Released: 31.03.2015
• EAN: 9780691617282
• ISBN: 978-0-691-61728-2
• No. of pages: 338
• Series: Princeton Legacy Library; Princeton Legacy Library
• Subjects: Fiction > Poetry, drama; Humanities, art, music > Linguistics and literary studies > English linguistics / literary studies; LITERARY CRITICISM / Drama, LITERARY CRITICISM / Ancient & Classical, LITERARY CRITICISM / Asian / Chinese, Chinese, Literary studies: classical, early & medieval, Literary studies: plays & playwrights, Literary studies: ancient, classical and medieval, Literary studies: plays and playwrights