The Image of Wandering Knights-Errant and the Space of the Capital City in Tang Poetry

Abstract

Wandering knights-errant (youxia 游侠) arose from the capital city’s multiculturalism. The image of wandering knights-errant in Tang poetry most typically embodies the interactive relationship between individuals and the space of the capital city. Through their acts of “wandering” (you 游), these knights-errant not only broke the physical barriers between different spaces but also connected private and public spaces, thereby socially transcending class divides. They were not only observers but also contributors to the capital city’s landscape, enriching its aesthetic dimensions. The image of wandering knights-errant in literary works represents a fusion of worldly desires and idealistic splendor. Wandering knights-errant exhibited traits such as valuing profit over righteousness while also aiding the distressed; they could also be extravagant and indulge in their desires. When defying prohibitions with martial prowess, they disrupted order; yet, when serving as vanguards for the monarchy, they became defenders and beneficiaries of privileges. Behind these contradictions lies the complex and unique relationship between the image of wandering knights-errant and the space of the capital city. The image of wandering knights-errant in Tang poetry expands the space of the capital city, both geographically and psychologically, and completes the personification of the capital city.

Keywords

Tang poetry / wandering knight-errant / capital city / space

RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS

Higher Education Press