Cao Xueqin

Cao Xueqin was a Qing Dynasty Chinese writer, best known for authoring the classic Chinese novel 'Dream of the Red Chamber' (also known as 'The Story of the Stone'). Born into a declining aristocratic family that had served the Ming emperors, Cao's personal experiences and the fall of his family's fortunes are thought to have greatly influenced his magnum opus. 'Dream of the Red Chamber' is considered one of China's Four Great Classical Novels, and it provides a detailed, episodic record of life in the two branches of the wealthy, aristocratic Jia clan. Cao's work is celebrated for its complex characters and its rich depiction of the culture and society of the time.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Dream of the Red Chamber

    "Dream of the Red Chamber" is a classic Chinese novel that provides a detailed, episodic record of life in the aristocratic Jia family. The story revolves around the love triangle between the family's heir, his sickly cousin, and his other cousin who is raised to be his wife. It is also a critique of the family's decline and a reflection on the societal norms of the time. The novel is famous for its vivid characterization and psychological depth, and its unique portrayal of Chinese society during the Qing dynasty.