Xuanhuan literally means “mysterious fantasy” and is a broad genre of Chinese fiction that remixes Chinese folklore and mythology with foreign elements and settings. Xuanhuan may or may not include xianxia elements, but usually lacks the Daoist influence.
The main difference between wuxia novel and other related genres is the level of fantasy and the degree of adherence to historical reality.
Wuxia novel is generally considered to be a low fantasy genre that is based on historical China and its martial arts traditions. Wuxia novel may include some supernatural elements, but they are usually limited or explained by natural laws.
Wuxia novel also follows the historical timeline and events of China, although it may fictionalize or exaggerate some aspects. Xianxia and xuanhuan novels, on the other hand, are high fantasy genres that are not bound by historical accuracy or realism.
They often create their own worlds, systems, races, and cosmologies that are based on or inspired by Chinese culture, but are not limited by it.
What are some famous wuxia novels?
Some famous wuxia novels are:
- A Hero Born by Jin Yong. It is the first part of the Condor Trilogy, which follows the adventures of Guo Jing, a martial artist who becomes involved in the conflicts between the Song dynasty and the Mongols.
- Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon by Wang Dulu. It is the fourth part of the Crane-Iron Pentalogy, which tells the love story of Li Mu Bai and Yu Shu Lien, two martial artists who are entangled in a web of secrets, betrayal, and revenge.
- The Eleventh Son by Gu Long. It is a standalone novel that features Xiao Shiyi Lang, a mysterious swordsman who falls in love with Shen Bijun, a beautiful woman who is coveted by many powerful men in the martial world.
- The Three Kingdoms by Luo Guanzhong. It is a historical novel that dramatizes the events of the Three Kingdoms period, when China was divided into three rival states. It depicts the lives and deeds of many legendary heroes, such as Liu Bei, Cao Cao, Zhuge Liang, and Guan Yu.
- Water Margin by Shi Nai’an. It is another historical novel that recounts the exploits of 108 outlaws who gather at Mount Liang and form a rebel army to fight against the corrupt Song dynasty. It portrays the themes of loyalty, justice, and heroism among the outlaws.
Who is the most famous author of wuxia novels?
The most famous author of wuxia novels is probably Jin Yong, also known as Louis Cha. He is widely regarded as the greatest and most popular wuxia writer ever, with his 15 works written between 1955 and 1972.
