This paper begins by introducing Li Yu's (李漁) idea on Jing Chou (淨丑/ a clown character with a painted face), from the perspectives on its relation to plots, characters, performers, audience and life. Li affirms the importance of Jing Chou which conveys a profound life philosophy. Next, through text analysis, including the discussion of the types of plots, character-shaping, setting and the relationship between the social reality and the literary works, this paper will present how Jing Chou from Li Yu's Chuanqi (傳奇/a poetic drama in Ming and Qing Dynasties in China) has been demonstrated in theatre. Li Yu puts great emphasis on role-playing and playacting, which could be fully manifested through the art of Jing Chou. Based on the discussion on plots, characters, and setting, this paper further indicates: the core of performance in the art of Jing Chou lies in playacting. When it comes to the setting, an innovative and revolutionary arrangement stands out to entertain the viewers, while the music and melody should be subtly designed to cater to the hearers. In Li Yu's viewpoint, the essence of the art of Jing Chou would be You Xi (游戲/ jesting and playacting), which is embodied in self-deprecating, constantly reforming, and fun-making. To sum up, the innovation and influence of the art of Jing Chou form a unique comic style; moreover, the comforting and inspirational practice of You Xi also opens up a direction for the research of drama in this century.
李漁傳奇的淨丑藝術=The Art of Jing Chou in Li Yu
