Abstract:

Zhanghui Novel is a type of traditional Chinese novel with each chapter headed by a couplet giving the gist of its content. It is interesting to note that many Zhanghui novels in Jiaqing-Daoguang period do not fit the traditional scheme of classification. The reasons for this phenomenon seem to be the innovation of the content of the novels, the combination of different types of novels, and the mutual permeation of novels with other hterary forms. This reflects the fact that the authors of this period attempted to break through the established aesthetic norms and reform the traditional modes of Zhanghui novels. It also explains that the types of novels in this period occupy an important and special position in the history of Chinese novels.

Key words: the Jiaqing-Daoguang period, Zhanghui novels, types of novels