Tales from Old China: The Lighter Side of an Ancient Culture

Lengthy literary works passed down from ancient China are mainly about historical records, most of which were written or compiled during the Han Dynasty some 2000 years ago. Long Chinese novels began to appear in the 14th century during the Ming Dynasty. Short stories, however, have been in circulation either verbally or in writing for more than two millennia. Many of them have been modified or rewritten through the centuries, resulting in different versions and forms. Tales from Old China is a collection of 20 interesting stories, which readers of Western educational and cultural backgrounds may find enjoyable. A short introduction is provided for each story to explain the relevant social and cultural setting so that the tale can be better appreciated. Not all the stories are pure fiction; some are based on actual historical events. Certain terms and adages originating in them are still found in modern Chinese language.