Abstract
Li Yu, a playwright in the early Qing Dynasty, proposed the significant “structural theory” for the development of Chinese drama. This paper begins by discussing the concept of structural organization in his vernacular novel Twelve Towers, exploring how Li Yu, prior to putting forth the “structure comes first” theory, used the construction of “towers” as a narrative framework in the novel, to establish the spatial and thematic significance for the characters and activities within the story. Applying literature analysis of Twelve Towers as the research method, and supplementing it with Li Yu’s structural theory from Random Thoughts and Essays and his expertise in incorporating garden art, the paper delves into the conceptualization and construction process of the “tower” in Li Yu's novels. Li Yu emphasized the novelty of building a narrative like constructing a house, diverging from conventional themes of talent and honour. His narrative strategy not only captivates readers by leveraging the allure of idle literature but also subtly critiques societal norms, aligning with the prevailing taste for light-hearted reading over solemn arguments. While scholarly discussions often centre on Li Yu's later work Random Thoughts and Essays, this paper uniquely starts with Twelve Floors to illuminate Li Yu's evolving compositional philosophy and narrative techniques.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call