The Misadventures of Master Mugwort: A Joke Book Trilogy from Imperial China

The Hsu-Tang Library provides authoritative and readable translations of classical Chinese literature, including The Misadventures of Master Mugwort: A Joke Book Trilogy from Imperial China. Set in the ancient Warring States period, the book follows the humorous episodes of Master Mugwort, who counsels kings, engages in mock philosophical debates, and wisecracks his way through the age of opportunity and intrigue. This trilogy represents a time-honored tradition of Chinese humor and a light-hearted interpretation of a bygone age. Translated in full for the first time by Elizabeth Smithrosser, the book introduces this once bestselling tradition to new audiences.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 20 December 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

The Hsu-Tang Library is a treasure trove of authoritative and captivating translations of classical Chinese literature, presented in bilingual editions spanning three millennia and the entire Sinitic world. Among its remarkable offerings is The Misadventures of Master Mugwort: A Joke Book Trilogy from Imperial China. This translation brings to life three collections of humorous episodes centered around the beloved fictional character of Master Mugwort (Aizi). Set during the ancient Warring States period, Master Mugwort serves as a wise counsel to kings, engaging in mock philosophical debates with other masters, and navigating the era of opportunity and intrigue with his trademark wit and humor.

The original collection, penned by the renowned literatus-extraordinaire Su Shi in the late 1000s, achieved explosive popularity, inspiring sequels centuries later. In 1516, the young and talented Lu Cai took up the mantle, followed by the whimsical retiree Tu Benjun in 1608. Together, these three books form a cherished tradition of Chinese humor, offering a light-hearted interpretation of a bygone age that remained of enduring significance to the writers of their time.

Now, for the first time, Elizabeth Smithrosser has undertaken the arduous task of translating these works in their entirety, accompanied by an introduction and explanatory notes. This volume introduces a once bestselling, yet often overlooked, tradition of Chinese literature to a new generation of readers, eager to explore the rich tapestry of Chinese culture and humor.

Weight: 442g
Dimension: 165 x 243 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197585603