In The Scholars,traditional Chinese medicinal substances such as ginseng,pineilia ternata,ferula,and coptis are depicted as"hot-poison-stinky-fake",playing a satirical role that reflects the novel's central theme of"fame and fortune".This portrayal,coupled with the recurring motif of being"incurable",forms a dual critique of societal values.The concept of incurability extends the satire further,emphasizing the deep and pervasive damage caused by the relentless pursuit of fame and fortune,affecting both men and women.Through this narrative,traditional Chinese medicine and diseases not only drive the plot but also enhance the novel's critique of societal norms.
The ScholarsHot-poison-stinky-fakeIncurableFame and Fortune