Collecting the Self : Body and Identity in Strange Tale Collections of Late Imperial China

Sing-Chen Lydia Chiang dives into the enchanting world of Chinese strange tale collections from the Late Imperial era, where the intersection of body and identity weaves a fascinating narrative. These stories, rich with phantoms and animal spirits, open a window into the cultural psyche of that time, revealing how personal and communal identities were shaped by these supernatural encounters.

Readers are invited on a journey through the whimsical and often eerie landscapes of folklore, where the boundaries between the living and the spirit world blur. Each tale is a reflection of societal values and personal anxieties, giving insight into how people understood their place in a world teeming with mysteries and myth.

The exploration not only highlights the distinctive narrative styles but also emphasizes the emotional and philosophical struggles of the characters, making the tales resonate even today. It’s an invitation to reflect on one's own identity amidst the strange and wondrous forces that shape human experience.