Abstract
Kong Shangren's (孔尚任) The Peach Blossom Fan（《桃花扇》） is a seminal work in Chinese traditional theatre literature. composed in 1699, it marked the culmination of a flourishing theatrical tradition over four centuries. The play encapsulates a narrative set against the backdrop of the collapse of the Ming Dynasty, illustrating the profound impact of imperial decline on individual lives. Over the centuries, audiences and scholars alike have been drawn to its themes and the enduring relevance of the play lies in its exploration of how individuals navigate a world fraught with political corruption and societal upheaval.
This essay aims to analyze three adaptations of the play spanning from the mid-20th century to contemporary times, saying Ouyang Yuqian’s（欧阳予倩）Jingju and drama adaptations in the 1930s and 1940s, the 1963 film adaptation by Sun Jing （孙敬） and Mei Qian（梅阡） based on Ouyang Yuqian’s drama version, and the recent contemporary theater rendition directed by Xiao Jing（肖竞） in 2022-2023. By analyzing these adaptations, the essay argues that while Kong Shangren's original served as an important intellectual resource in Chinese traditional culture, subsequent interpretations have enriched the thematic depth of the play, offering new insights that resonate with different historical epochs and societal contexts. By investigating the themes of the three versions, we can take a glimpse of the structures of feelings which have emerged at some crucial historical moments in the nation. Before delving into the adaptations, the essay starts with a revisit to Kong’s original play.
https://ror.org/05a4v8r91 
