Employment of Theme Props by Pu Songling in His Liao Zhai Zhi Yi

The creative application of “theme props” by Pu Songling in Liao Zhai Zhi Yi achieved significant artistic effects. Classical Chinese fiction has long employed “theme props” to drive plot design, and Pu Songling further advanced this tradition by deepening the narrative through three typical methods: first, imbuing props with symbolic meanings and profound metaphors; second, using props as keys to resolve conflicts; third, employing props as mediums for plot twists and character relationships. Though seemingly minor, these props are closely linked to the core traits of characters, the development of the plot, and the trajectory of fate, resulting in compact story structures and clear narrative focus. This demonstrates Pu Songling’s mastery and innovative development of traditional narrative techniques.