The Relationship between the Mad Imagery in Lu Xun’s “the Eternal Lamp” and Taoist Philosophy of Life

Abstract

Lu Xun’s works have always been one of the key research topics, and many researchers focus on the relationship between Lu Xun and Taoism. However, there is still a gap in the study of linking his crazy imagery with Taoism. Therefore, this paper takes “The Eternal Lamp” as an example to analyze the relationship between the madman image and the Taoist philosophy of life. Firstly, the paper points out the unique significance of the image of the madman in “The Eternal Lamp” and then explores the connection between his character image and Taoism in order to obtain Lu Xun’s attitude towards traditional religion. The study argues that Lu Xun unconsciously inherited the positive aspects of the Taoist philosophy of life in shaping his literary image, especially drawing on the prominent power of the subject’s personality. Future academic research can focus on studying traditional philosophy and religion in Lu Xun’s novels, which can help provide a comprehensive understanding of Lu Xun and his works.