Story of the Stone Essay - 1393 Words

Cao Xueqin’s Story of the Stone is a classic in Chinese literature, showcasing the life and exploits of the wealthy Jia clan during the feudal era. Through Cao’s depiction, the reader is afforded a glimpse into the customs and lifestyle of the time. Chinese mode of thought is depicted as it occurred in daily life, with the coexisting beliefs of Confucianism and Taoism. While the positive aspects of both ideologies are presented, Cao ultimately depicts Taoism as the paramount, essential system of belief that guides the character Bao-yu to his eventual enlightenment. As was the case in China, Cao depicts the two forms of belief existing alongside one another, and not necessarily practiced exclusively to one another. Confucianism†¦show more content†¦After publishing the work, Vanitas experiences a Taoist transformation. Confucian ideology is presented early in the text as well. In Chapter Six, we see a distant relative coming to the household to seek financi al help. Despite their estrangement and lack of contact in recent years, the family is generous and Xi-feng presents Grannie Liu with silver. Here the Confucian filial obligation to family is highlighted. In the Confucian system, such a system of virtuous relationships provides structure and order to an otherwise chaotic society. Xi-feng’s actions demonstrate the importance to which Confucian values were held in this period. In contrast to Confucian beliefs, which seek understanding through obligation to duty and family, Taoism provides a better platform for personal betterment and spiritual awakening. In the fifth chapter, when Bao-yu is summoned to the Land of Disillusion, his fairy-overseers explain their concern for him, because as they see it, he the last possible chance for redemption of the family. They are concerned that Bao-yu’s sexual curiosity is getting in the way of his studies and the advancement of his Confucian understanding. For this reason, th e Fair of Disenchantment arranges for a sexual rendezvous between Bao-yu and her own sister in hopes that it will snap him out of his earthly desires. â€Å"My motive in arranging this is to help you grasp the fact that, since even in these immortal precincts love is an illusion, the love ofShow MoreRelatedThe Story Of Stone Mother847 Words   |  4 PagesGroup 1, Question B The story of Stone Mother functions both as an origin and etiological story because it provided a sense of values and explained the phenomena of nature’s creation in time. It’s amazing to analyze how certain landmarks in nature were created based upon the stories that were passed down through generations. The story shared the value of family and to appreciate the connection that exists between people and nature. 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Story Summary nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;In this story it begins speaking about a character named DanielRead MoreThe Sword in the Stone: Disneys Version vs. T.H. White1399 Words   |  6 PagesThe story of King Arthur is widely known, either his beginnings told in The Sword in the Stone or how he led the Knights of the Round Table. While there are many version of his story T. H. White’s written version and Disney’s animated version of The Sword in the Stone are two of the most recognized versions. Most movies have the ability to embody the original intent of the book they were based upon. Disney’s movie version of T. H. White’s rendition of The Sword in the Stone, however, while portraying