Family
Ba Jin · 1933
About this book
The first novel in Ba Jin's Turbulent Stream trilogy follows three brothers trapped in a patriarchal Confucian household. It captures the explosive generational conflict between feudal tradition and modern ideas that defined early 20th-century China.
Why read this for language learning
Ba Jin's "Family" is an "intermediate" level novel, providing a poignant look into early 20th-century Chinese society. Its relatively straightforward modern vernacular Chinese makes it accessible for learners, while its emotional depth offers rich vocabulary related to family dynamics, personal struggle, and social critique. The book provides significant cultural insights into the clash between traditional patriarchal structures and emerging modern ideals, allowing learners to grasp expressions of rebellion, love, and sacrifice within a historically significant context.
Vocabulary you will encounter
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