JIN SHENGTAN’S PLOT THEORY (MING AND QING DYNASTIES OF MODERN NARRATIVE THINKING BY ZHAO YANQIU)

Abstract

The research of classical Chinese narration thought is the study of narrative theory consciousness in a comparative perspective between the West and China, and critical approach of narative thoughts are of great methodological significance to the construction of China's narratology. The purpose of this article is to systematize and explore the narrative concept of Jin Shengtan’s plots, based on Chinese theoretical and practical perspectives, highlighting the uniqueness of classical Chinese narration. The article employs several methods such as analysis, synthesis, comparison, typological research, and a structure-system approach. The plot is the content aspect of a narrative work, but the study of narrative goes beyond examining specific content; it involves studying the constituent elements, forms, and organizational structure of the narrative, such as events, characters, and plot developments. The article demonstrates a comprehensive and systematic approach, as well as the distinctive perspective of Jin Shengtan’s narrative, thought in relation to the plot. Based on Jin Shengtan’s narrative thought, the article contributes to proving the value of classical Chinese narration.