聊齋志異

A collection of supernatural tales written in the late 17th to early 18th century. The work delves into the strange and fantastical aspects of human existence, exploring themes of love, morality, and the uncanny through a series of captivating stories. The characters within these tales often encounter spirits, ghosts, and otherworldly beings, presenting readers with both humorous and thought-provoking narratives. The opening of the book introduces a variety of characters and situations that set the tone for the stories to come. It begins with a tale of a scholar, Song Gong, who, despite being gravely ill, is summoned to an examination and ultimately appointed as a city god. Other stories within this section introduce intriguing characters like Tan Jingxuan, who becomes obsessed with the sounds in his ear, and various encounters with spirits and supernatural entities. Atmospheres of mystery and eerie occurrences pervade the narratives, showcasing a blend of humor, folklore, and philosophical contemplation about human nature and the spiritual world.