Divine Interventions: Gods, Exorcisms, and Supernatural Power in Early Chinese Theater Wilt L. Idema and Stephen H. West

Divine Interventions: Gods, Exorcisms, and Supernatural Power in Early Chinese Theater by Wilt L. Idema and Stephen H. West

Essential for studying the supernatural in Chinese literature, zaju theater, and the ritual and performative traditions of the Yuan and Ming dynasties. Its accessible structure and contextual framing make it an ideal textbook for courses in Chinese literature, religion, theater, and East Asian cultural history.

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Hardcover ISBN 9781638573708
Pages 320
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Size 6 x 9 in or 229 x 152 mm

Divine Interventions presents five expertly translated zaju plays from the thirteenth to fifteenth centuries, where gods battle demons, immortals enlighten mortals, and fate is dramatically challenged. Rooted in the ritual origins of early Chinese drama, these works reveal how religion and performance were profoundly intertwined in imperial China. Each play dramatizes a moment of supernatural intervention—from exorcisms and divine retribution to cosmic justice—offering insight into zaju theater as both sacred rite and theatrical spectacle.

Iconic figures of Chinese mythology take center stage: Lü Dongbin gains enlightenment from Zhongli Quan in a classic Daoist deliverance play; Zhong Kui, the legendary demon slayer, purges the palace of evil; the bodhisattva Manjusri (Wenshu) tames a raging lion, while the invincible child warrior Nezha fails where wisdom prevails; Guan Yu (Guan Gong) transforms into an exorcist deity; and the cunning Peach Blossom Girl outwits fate—and a master diviner.

Featuring critical introductions and translations based on the earliest available texts, this volume is essential for studying the supernatural in Chinese literature, zaju theater, and the ritual and performative traditions of the Yuan and Ming dynasties. Its accessible structure and contextual framing make it an ideal textbook for courses in Chinese literature, religion, theater, and East Asian cultural history.

Wilt L. Idema is Professor Emeritus of Chinese Literature at Harvard University. A recipient of the prestigious Special Book Award of China, Dr. Idema’s many publications include "The Immortal Maiden Equal to Heaven” and Other Precious Scrolls from Western Gansu, The Legend of Prince Golden Calf in China and Korea, Insects in Chinese Literature: A Study and Anthology, and .

Stephen H. West is Foundation Professor Emeritus of Chinese in the School of International Letters and Cultures at Arizona State University. Dr. West's many publications include i>Ferocious Enforcers: Nezha and Erlang in Ming Palace Plays.

Introduction

Chapter 1. Ma Zhiyuan a.o., Opening the Altar and Explaining the Teachings: A Dream of Yellow Millet

Chapter 2. Zhu Youdun, The Immortal Officials Happiness, Wealth and Longevity Gather in Celebration

Chapter 3. Zhu Youdun, The Bodhisattva Mañju?r? Subdues the Lion

Chapter 4. Anonymous, Guan Yunchang Trounces Chiyou

Chapter 5. Anonymous, Expert in Yin and Yang and the Eight Trigrams: The Girl Peach Blossom

Bibliography

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