On the Well Imagery and Its Cultural Implications in Zibuyu

Abstract

Zibuyu is one of the three major collections of classical Chinese fantasy novels in the Qing Dynasty. The imagery of wells in many of its works is eye-catching. Wells were originally used for drawing water, and participated in all aspects of the daily life of the ancients. The imagery of the well in Zibuyu expresses through absurd writing that the well can carry all things because of its illusory nature, its static nature can be a permanent reference item, and its allegorical nature can carry Daoism and virtue. By exploring the rich ideological culture of ancient China reflected in the well imagery in Zibuyu, it will help to inherit and spread the excellent traditional Chinese culture and provide a unique perspective for the protection of cultural heritage.