Chen Yujiao 1544-1611

A native of Haining (in present-day Zhejiang province), Chen demonstrated a consistent interest in literature throughout his life. His extant theatrical works include four chuanqi plays and five (some argue six) zaju plays, among which Lady Zhaojun Crosses the Frontier is considered the best. In addition to plays, he also wrote poems, articles, and theatrical critiques. It is commonly agreed that he was also a major editor of Gu mingjia zaju [Zaju by ancient famous playwrights], a collection of zajuscripts.

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