The contradiction and aesthetic uniqueness of Li Yu = 李渔的矛盾性及其审美独特性

Abstract

The focus of this research thesis is Li Yu, a writer/dramatist from the late Ming and early Qing dynasties. Li Yu also established the Mustard Seed Garden, which compiled many books, and he made the acquaintance of dignitaries, literary celebrities and so on. This thesis argues for his uniqueness in comparison to his peers, in terms of both his work and his lifestyle.

By re-examining Li Yu’s literary creations, gastronomy writings and means of earning a living, this thesis considers his unique attitude and defining standard of “elegance” when compared with other elite scholars of the same period. This focus leads to the discussion of Li Yu’s uniqueness in other aspects, such as his intrinsic personality, attitudes towards life, personal behavior, creative practice, and so on. Based on this, the thesis discovers a very noteworthy point about Li Yu, namely his contradictions. These include not only the differences between him and his peers in terms of ideology and behavior, but also the inconsistencies between Li Yu’s words and actions, as well as the apparent paradoxes of his own words.