A Guide to Chinese Ghost Stories: What are the Common Themes in Chinese Ghost Stories?

Fate is also a common theme. The idea that the ghosts and humans are fated to meet and fall in love is present in many stories. It gives the impression that their love is not just a random occurrence but something that is pre - ordained. In addition, the theme of redemption can be found in some stories. For example, a ghost may be redeemed through the love of a human, or vice versa, as they struggle against the dark forces that try to keep them apart.

One common theme is love that transcends life and death. Ghosts often fall in love with humans, like in 'A Chinese Ghost Story'. Another theme is karma. People are rewarded or punished according to their actions in life in the afterlife as depicted in these stories.

One common theme is karma. Ghosts often appear to seek revenge or justice for the wrongs they suffered when alive. For example, if someone was wrongly killed, their ghost might come back to punish the perpetrator.

One common theme is revenge. Ghosts in Chinese ghost stories often come back to take revenge on those who wronged them during their lifetime. Another theme is love that transcends death. There are stories where the love between a human and a ghost persists despite the barriers. And also, moral lessons are common. For example, if someone is greedy or cruel, they may be haunted by ghosts as a form of punishment.

One common theme is karma. Ghosts often appear to seek revenge or justice for the wrongs done to them during their lifetimes. For example, if someone was wrongly killed, their ghost might come back to punish the perpetrator.

Love is a common theme. Just like in 'The Legend of the White Snake', the love between the snake spirit and the human man is central. Another theme is the conflict between good and evil. In 'Nie Xiaoqian', Nie Xiaoqian represents the good side who wants to break free from the evil control.

There are no proper 'erotic' ghost stories in the mainstream of Chinese literature. Chinese ghost stories mainly focus on themes like love, justice, and the cycle of karma. For instance, the theme of love between a human and a ghost often appears, which shows the power of love across different realms.

One common theme is revenge. Ghosts often come back to take revenge on those who wronged them when they were alive. For example, in many stories, a person who was killed unjustly will return as a ghost to punish the murderer.

The theme of mystery and the unknown is also very common. Chinese online ghost stories usually set in old, dilapidated places such as abandoned mansions or ancient temples. These places are full of mystery, and the ghosts add to the sense of the unknown. For example, in stories about haunted houses, there are always strange things happening that no one can really explain.

Love also plays a significant role in some non - erotic Chinese ghost stories. It's not always a romantic love between two living people. Sometimes it's the love of a ghost for a living person or the love that transcends death. This love can be a powerful force that drives the story, whether it's a love that can't be fulfilled or a love that helps the ghost find peace. Additionally, family loyalty is often a theme. Ghosts may return to protect their families or to set things right within their family units.