Library of Chinese Classics - 6: A Dream of Red Mansions

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Also known as Hong Lou Meng, this work is considered China's greatest literary masterpiece, chronicling a noble family's life in the eighteenth century. Amidst the splendor of enchanting gardens and pleasure pavilions lies a deeper narrative of decay and self-destruction. The author, Cao Xueqin (1715? - 1763?), originally named Zhan, adopted the style name Mengruan. He was also known as Xueqin, Qinpu, or Qinxi. His family hailed from what is now Liaoyang City in Northeast China and had been integrated into the Manchu Right White Banner. For around 60 years, his ancestors held the position of Textile Commissioner in Jiangning (modern-day Nanjing). Cao Xueqin's great grandmother was a nursemaid to the future Kangxi emperor, who later honored the family. However, after the Yongzhen emperor's ascension, Cao Xueqin's father, Cao Fu, faced disgrace and the family's fortunes dwindled, leading them to Beijing. Once accustomed to luxury, Cao Xueqin experienced poverty firsthand, ultimately living in a modest hovel on the outskirts of the capital. The death of his young son in 1762 profoundly affected him, and he never fully recovered. He passed away on February 12, 1763.