Compiled during the Song dynasty (960–1279) at the behest of Emperor Taizong, the
Taiping Guangji
anthologized thousands of pages of unofficial histories, accounts, and minor stories from the Tang dynasty (618–907).
The twenty-two tales translated in this volume, many appearing for the first time in English, reveal the dynamism and diversity of society in Tang China. A lengthy Introduction as well as introductions to each selection further illuminate the social and historical contexts within which these narratives unfold. This collection offers a wealth of information for anyone interested in medieval Chinese history, religion, or everyday life.