Spanning six centuries of Chinese literary history, this substantial anthology brings together poetry, drama, fiction, philosophical reflections and fantastical tales, tracing the evolution of literary forms from the Yüan dynasty through the Ming and Ch'ing periods to the emergence of modern Chinese writing.

Edited and introduced by scholar Cyril Birch, the collection offers a remarkable range of voices, from classical lyricists and playwrights to twentieth-century writers experimenting with new forms of expression. Among its selections are songs of the Yüan dynasty, extracts from the celebrated Ming drama The Peony Pavilion, supernatural encounters and Buddhist allegories, reflections on everyday life by Li Yü, and autobiographical writings by Shen Fu.

The later sections introduce modern writers including Lu Hsün, Mao Tun and Hsü Chih-mo, demonstrating the shifting relationship between literary tradition, political upheaval and cultural modernity. An absorbing collection for readers interested in Chinese literature, translated writing, folklore and the historical transformations of storytelling.

Grove Press, First Evergreen Edition, 1972, third printing. Vintage paperback. Good condition, with age-related tanning, some rubbing, creasing and edge wear to covers. Interior pages appear clean and well preserved.