The Early Chronicles of Di Qing/狄青初传

<p>The protagonists of this book-Di Qing Bao Zheng and Yang Zongbao-are all iconic figures deeply rooted in Chinese folk literature. Di Qing and Bao Zheng are historical personages while Yang Zongbao is a fictional creation. In terms of plot the narrative operates within a broadly historical framework: events like Di Qing's suppression of the Western Xia rebellion and Emperor Renzong reuniting with his biological mother align with documented history. Yet the finer details are richly embellished with legendary flair featuring extensive supernatural elements. This vividly illustrates how the text draws primarily from age-old legends and stories perpetuated through China's oral folk performing traditions.</p><p>本书主角狄青、包拯、杨宗保三人，都是在民间文学中耳熟能详的人物，其中狄青、包拯是史实人物，杨宗保为虚构人物。而故事情节方面，在大的框架下，是基本符合历史的，比如狄青平西夏、宋仁宗认生母；但是具体到细节上，明显具有传奇色彩，甚至有大量涉及神怪的描写，可见该书主要是基于在民间说唱文学中流传已久的传说、故事来创作的。</p>