牡丹亭   By: Xianzu Tang (1550-1616)

牡丹亭 by Xianzu Tang is a beautifully written play that explores themes of love, fate, and the power of storytelling. The story follows the tragic love affair between Du Liniang and Scholar Liu, who are brought together by a mysterious dream and separated by societal expectations.

The play is filled with lush imagery and poetic language, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that transports the reader to ancient China. The characters are vividly drawn and their emotions are palpable, making the reader feel deeply invested in their fates.

One of the most striking aspects of the play is its exploration of the role of storytelling in shaping reality. As the characters navigate their doomed love affair, they are constantly confronted with the power of fate and the stories we tell ourselves about who we are and who we are meant to be.

Overall,牡丹亭 is a poignant and thought-provoking play that will stay with readers long after they have finished reading. It is a testament to the enduring power of love and the complexities of human relationships.

First Page:

第01齣 標目 　　〔蝶戀花〕（末上）忙處拋人閒處住。百計思量，沒個為歡處。白日消磨腸斷句， 世間只有情難訴。玉茗堂前朝後暮，紅燭迎人，俊得江山助。但是相思莫相負，牡丹亭 上三生路。〔漢宮春〕杜寶黃堂，生麗娘小姐，愛踏春陽。感夢書生折柳，竟為情傷。 寫真留記，葬梅花道院淒涼。三年上，有夢梅柳子，於此赴高唐。果爾回生定配。赴臨 安取試，寇起淮陽。正把杜公圍困，小姐驚惶。教柳郎行探，反遭疑激惱平章。風流況 ，施行正苦，報中狀元郎。 　　杜麗娘夢寫丹青記。... Continue reading book >>