Weatherhead Books on Asia

Romantic Illusions of the Fool of Yangzhou

By: Patrick Hanan (Translator)

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7 March 2017 | Edition Number 1

At a Glance

No. of Pages
344

Age
22+

Dimensions(cm)
2.17 x 1.43 x 0.21

$102.75

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In his preface, the anonymous author of Courtesans and Opium describes his book as an act of penance for thirty years spent patronizing the brothels of Yangzhou. Written in the 1840s, his story is filled with vice and dark consequence, portraying the hazards of the city's seedy underbelly and warning others against the example of the Fool.

Chinese literature's first true "city novel," Courtesans and Opium recounts the illustrious career of a debauched soul enveloped by enthralling pursuits and romantic illusions. While socially acceptable marriages were arranged and often loveless, brothels offered men accomplished courtesans who served as both enchanting companions and sensual lovers. These professional sirens dressed in the latest styles and dripped with gold, silver, and jewels. From an early age, they were taught to excel at various arts and graces, which transformed the brothel into a kind of club for men to meet, exchange gossip, and smoke opium at their leisure.

The Fool's fable follows five sworn brothers and their respective relationships with Yangzhou courtesans, revealing in acute detail the lurid materialism of this dangerous world--its violence and corruption as well as its seductive but illusory promise. Never before translated into English, Courtesans and Opium offers a brilliant window into the decadence of nineteenth-century China.

Industry Reviews

Patrick Hanan's translation of this book is exemplary. -- Bradley Winterton Taipei Times Patrick Hanan's splendid translation of this emotive, intricate novel rewards the general reader and proves an invaluable guide to students of Qing fiction. -- Chloe Starr Chinese Literature [A] superb translation: faithful to the original, graceful yet also lively and delightful. Choice

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