The Eroticism inErotic Records of Emperor Yang of Sui Dynasty

Based on previous textual materials, Qidong Yeren (ZHANG Yanghao, a well-known man of letter in Yuan Dynasty) incorporated the connotation of eroticism into the story of Emperor Yang of Sui Dynasty through material selection, arrangement, and language usage. This made the Erotic Records of Emperor Yang of Sui Dynastypresent a unique aesthetic experience themed on the love between Emperor Yang and his imperial concubines. With eroticism as a criterion for material selection, ZHANG selected historical and fictional sources, and modified the original theme through additions, deletions, and rewriting to emphasize eroticism and unusualness in the source. With skillful arrangements of structure and narrative techniques, the plot becomes more dramatic. Finally, the use of exquisite poetry and prose enriches the descriptions of luxury in his palace, the beauty of his harem, and deep lust, creating a sense of eroticism. As a result, ZHANG’s readers could experience the eroticism of Emperor Yang in the Erotic Records of Emperor Yang of Sui Dynastyin an atmosphere of admiration and surprise.