Analysis of Reoccurring Themes of Ill Fated Relationships As a Foreshadow
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In the Dream of the Red Chamber, Cao Xueqin introduces many themes which foreshadow the conclusion of the novel. One of these themes is that of ill-fated love, some resulting in death. The theme is present but submissive in the earlier volumes of the novel. The intensity of this theme starting in the third volume creates a new awareness of the subject. Unlike the romances of the first and second volume, relationships of tragic outcomes are made explicit. As a result the readers become more conscious of the situations through the descriptions of the relationships' tragedy and its effects. The increase in intensity with each volume may lead the readers to predict a similar final outcome of the central relationship among Bao-yu, Bao-chai and Dai-yu.
Tragic love and death, as result of ill-fated relationships, are indirectly linked in volume one The Golden Days. In two cases of ill-fated relationships Qinshi and Qin Zhong turn out to be the tragic victims, although in both cases the tragedy is disguised as illness. Qinshi's death is the result of worries and guilt laid upon her by her adulterous lover Cousin Zhen...