錦香亭

A historical novel written in the 18th century. The story takes place during the Tang Dynasty and follows the life of a talented young scholar named 鍾景期, exploring themes of romance, intrigue, and societal expectations amidst the backdrop of imperial politics. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to the historical context of the Tang Dynasty, detailing the rise and fall of various emperors. The main character, 鍾景期, is portrayed as an exceptional talent with aspirations and a deep longing for a perfectly matched partner. Following the death of his parents, he dedicates himself to scholarship and entering the civil service, all while grappling with the pressures of family expectations regarding marriage. His encounter with a beautiful figure in a garden, along with a series of poetic exchanges and the fateful discovery of a lost scarf, sets the stage for a romantic pursuit and involves him in the complex social dynamics of the time.