The Metaphorical Dimensions of Symbolic Prices and Real-World Values in Hong Lou Meng
Vol. 41 No. 4 06/2011
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Title |
The Metaphorical Dimensions of Symbolic Prices and Real-World Values in Hong Lou Meng |
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Author |
Tristan Gerard Brown |
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Genre |
Article |
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Pages |
795-812 |
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Download |
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Language |
English |
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Key words |
Hong Lou Meng 紅樓夢, Cao Xueqin 曹雪芹, Taels, Qing Economy |
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Abstract |
This article explores the historical and metaphorical implications of Hong Lou Meng's economic dimensions. First, for historical context, we provide a background of the 18th century Qing economy. Then, we examine the prices which appear in the book in light of Hongxue scholarship, especially comparing those in the first eighty chapters with those in the last forty chapters. Finally, we consider the symbolic and metaphorical aspects of literary price inflation in the novel. |