44 pages • 1 hour read
Wu Cheng'en, Transl. Arthur WaleyMonkey: A Folk Novel of China
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1592A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Monkey: A Folk Novel of China, translated by Arthur Waley from Wu Cheng'en's 16th-century Chinese novel, follows the adventures of the stone Monkey, who becomes the king of all monkeys and later seeks religion to overcome his fear of mortality. Captured and imprisoned under a mountain, Monkey is eventually freed to join the monk Tripitaka on a pilgrimage to retrieve sacred scriptures from India, accompanied by Pigsy, Sandy, and a dragon-turned-horse, facing numerous challenges and learning teamwork and wisdom along the way until their successful return and divine ascension. The narrative includes graphic depictions of violence and discussions of death.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Monkey: A Folk Novel of China by Wu Cheng'en and translated by Arthur Waley receives acclaim for its engaging storytelling, vivid characters, and cultural depth. Readers appreciate the translation's accessibility and humorous tone. However, some criticize it for occasional cultural misinterpretations and omissions. Overall, it's a much-loved work that offers a captivating introduction to Chinese literature.
Who Should Read Monkey: A Folk Novel of China?
A reader who enjoys Monkey: A Folk Novel of China by Wu Cheng'en and translated by Arthur Waley would likely appreciate classic literature, mythological tales, and epic adventures. Comparable to readers of The Odyssey and Journey to the West, they value historical context and rich storytelling imbued with cultural significance.
RecommendedReading Age
15+yearsBook Details
Fantasy
Classic Fiction
Asian Literature