What are the characteristics of predestined marriage in Chinese novels?

One famous predestined marriage Chinese novel is 'A Dream of Red Mansions'. It tells a complex story of love and fate among many characters in a large family. The relationships are full of twists and turns, and the idea of predestined marriage is deeply woven into the narrative.

Growth and self - discovery are themes too. As the characters navigate their predestined relationships, they often learn more about themselves. In a 'predestined marriage' novel, the relationship acts as a catalyst for personal development. For instance, in 'Romeo and Juliet', both characters grow in their understanding of love and sacrifice through their relationship, even if it ends in tragedy.

One characteristic is the fast - paced relationship development. In these novels, the characters often get married or enter into a serious relationship very quickly, without much time for long - term courtship. For example, in some novels, the couple might meet and decide to get married within a few days or weeks.

Often, there is an initial agreement for practical reasons in 'contract marriage' Chinese novels. For example, one might need to solve a family problem or gain some business benefits. Then, as the story progresses, the relationship between the two main characters starts to change from a cold contractual one to a more emotional one.

Often, fated marriage in Chinese novels is accompanied by signs or omens. These can be strange dreams, the appearance of rare animals or special celestial phenomena. The characters may not understand these signs at first, but as the story progresses, they realize that these were indications of their fated marriage. And sometimes, fated marriage is used to promote the development of the overall plot. It can lead to the discovery of secrets, the rise or fall of families or clans, and the transformation of the characters themselves.

One well - known 'predestined marriage' novel is 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen. It's a story full of love, misunderstandings, and ultimately, a predestined kind of love between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy. The social hierarchies and the characters' personal growth throughout the novel add depth to their relationship which seems predestined from the start.

Often, these novels also show the development of characters within the marriage. A character might be shy and inexperienced before marriage, but after getting married, they become more mature and confident in handling relationship problems. This transformation is an important part of the 'love after marriage' theme in Chinese novels as it reflects the impact of marriage on personal growth and the evolution of love.

In such novels, a common characteristic is a significant difference in social status or family background between the spouses. This often leads to conflicts and challenges in their relationship.

Many Chinese novels in the list have complex plots. For example, 'Dream of the Red Chamber' has a very intricate web of relationships and family politics. They also often have deep cultural roots. 'Journey to the West' is full of Buddhist and Taoist elements.

Often, the relationships between the characters in matrilocal marriage - based stories are more complex in terms of gender roles. The male character may have to adapt to a new environment where the female family members play important roles. Novels might explore the psychological and emotional adjustments of the husband in a matrilocal marriage, as well as how the wife and her family interact with him in this new family setup.