A Review of the Three Kinds of Love Viewpoints and Their Cultural Meanings

Cui Yingying,Du Liniang and Wang Jiaoniang are representative female images in Chinese classic drama,who are well known for their revolt against feudalistic moral standards,and for their perseverance in pursuit of love.Despite similarities in their social status,complexions,manners,lovers and even obstacles to love,the three characters also show differences in ways of cultivating,expressing,pursuing and obtaining their love.Their point of view in are marked by a perfect match of scholars and beauties,love out of passion rather than reason and love out of intimate friendship,which are popular in the Yuan Dynasty,the late Ming dynasty and end of the Qing dynasty respectively.The variations as such reflect distinct historical and cultural characteristics of the time.