Peony Pavilion (Mudanting) is a famous Chinese play written by Tang Xianzu during the Ming Dynasty in the late 16th century. Known as one of the “Four Great Chinese Classical Dramas,” the play has captivated audiences for centuries with its beautiful portrayal of love, dreams, and reincarnation. The story centers around the love between Du Liniang and Liu Mengmei, but a lesser-known but equally important character is Fragrance (Xiang), who plays a key role in the development of the plot. This article explores who Fragrance is in Peony Pavilion and her significance to the overall story.
The Plot of Peony Pavilion
Peony Pavilion is set in the city of Nanjing and is a tale of passionate love, spiritual transcendence, and the power of dreams. The story begins with Du Liniang, the young daughter of a wealthy family, who dreams of a beautiful young scholar named Liu Mengmei. In the dream, they fall in love, and she becomes enamored with him. She wakes from the dream and, heartbroken by the realization that the man in her vision is only a figment of her imagination, falls ill and eventually dies from her unfulfilled longing.
However, Du Liniang’s love is so powerful that she is reincarnated, and after many years, she meets Liu Mengmei in the real world. Their love story continues through various trials and tribulations, ultimately leading to their union. The themes of love beyond life and reincarnation are central to the plot.
Who is Fragrance?
Fragrance, or Xiang, is a secondary character in Peony Pavilion but one who plays a significant role in the development of the story. She is Du Liniang’s maid and a close confidante. Fragrance is a simple, kind-hearted, and loyal character who, though not the protagonist, plays an essential part in the emotional and spiritual journey of Du Liniang.
Fragrance is introduced early in the play, acting as a companion to Du Liniang in her daily life. As Liniang becomes increasingly consumed by her dream of Liu Mengmei, it is Fragrance who provides support and comfort, though she does not fully understand the depths of her mistress’s emotions. Fragrance, like the audience, watches Liniang struggle with her feelings, and her character offers a grounding presence amid the more fantastical elements of the story.
Fragrance’s Role in Du Liniang’s Dream
Fragrance’s role becomes especially important when Du Liniang falls ill and dies from the anguish of her unrequited love. After Du Liniang’s death, Fragrance remains loyal to her, even when her mistress’s spirit reappears. Fragrance serves as a vital bridge between the physical world and the spiritual realm, helping Du Liniang navigate the dream-like and supernatural elements of the story.
Fragrance also becomes instrumental in the plot’s development when she assists Du Liniang in her reincarnation. She remains a constant companion, providing emotional support during Liniang’s return to the physical world. Fragrance is a source of practical and emotional guidance, and her presence helps Liniang in her search for Liu Mengmei, reinforcing the theme of devotion and loyalty that runs throughout the play.
Symbolism of Fragrance in Peony Pavilion
The character of Fragrance can be seen as a symbolic representation of loyalty, love, and earthly connection. While Du Liniang is the passionate, ethereal figure caught between the worlds of dream and reality, Fragrance remains grounded in the physical world. She represents the enduring power of friendship and loyalty, helping her mistress navigate the trials of both the physical and spiritual realms.
In many ways, Fragrance also symbolizes the support system that individuals rely on when pursuing love or their desires. While Du Liniang’s love for Liu Mengmei is intense and otherworldly, Fragrance provides the necessary earthly care that helps her navigate her emotional journey. Fragrance is the one who facilitates Liniang’s physical survival, supporting her through the challenges that arise.
Fragrance’s name itself is symbolic. In Chinese culture, fragrance (xiang) is often associated with beauty, femininity, and the idea of leaving a lasting impression. Fragrance’s role in the story reflects the way beauty, loyalty, and love continue to impact those around us, even when the more powerful or mystical forces dominate the narrative.
Fragrance’s Contribution to the Play’s Themes
One of the key themes of Peony Pavilion is the tension between the spiritual and the physical, as well as the transcendence of love beyond life itself. Du Liniang’s journey from life to death and back again symbolizes the belief in reincarnation, where love is so powerful it transcends mortal existence. Fragrance’s role as a supportive, constant companion underscores the idea that true love is not only spiritual but requires earthly devotion and support. She provides Liniang with the practical help she needs to navigate her spiritual journey, highlighting the balance between the otherworldly and the earthly.
Furthermore, Fragrance’s role as a confidante and helper reinforces the theme of unspoken love and devotion. She is the witness to Liniang’s emotional turmoil and acts as a silent partner in her quest for love. Although her role may seem secondary compared to the lead characters, Fragrance’s presence is essential in reinforcing the underlying messages of love, loyalty, and the importance of companionship.
Conclusion
In Peony Pavilion, Fragrance (Xiang) may not be the central figure, but her character is an important one. She represents loyalty, support, and the earthly connection that helps Du Liniang navigate her spiritual journey. While Liniang’s love for Liu Mengmei is the main focus of the story, Fragrance’s role emphasizes the need for companionship and emotional support.
Through her loyalty, Fragrance adds depth to the themes of love and reincarnation, proving that even secondary characters can hold powerful symbolic meaning. In many ways, Fragrance is the backbone of Du Liniang’s emotional and spiritual journey, reminding us that love requires both spiritual and earthly devotion.
