Abstract

Since ancient times, interpretations of the dragon image in China have followed two distinct yet intertwined paths: one official and one popular. As seen in The Scholars and the late Qing novels of exposure, the dragon is often used to refer to officials and objects associated with imperial power. At the same time, because holding office required a high level of cultural attainment, those likened to dragons were also expected to possess considerable scholarly refinement. Satirical depictions of dragons in everyday life reveal just how deeply embedded the dragon image was in traditional Chinese society. Moreover, the distinctive nature of satirical fiction enables it to direct irony at the official, imperial-centered version of the dragon. The dragon imagery in The Scholars and late Qing condemnatory fiction takes on these characteristics because of the very nature of satirical literature. Rooted in reality, such works inevitably reflect the dragon as it actually existed in society. During the Ming–Qing period, and especially within the examination system, the dragon image was indeed marked by this kind of complexity. Furthermore, it was impossible for imperial power to monopolize the dragon symbol. The dragon inevitably permeated all corners of popular life, beyond the reach of imperial control. This in turn reveals the free, worldly orientation of satirical fiction and its resonance with the early stirrings of enlightenment thought.

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