Anecdotal Writing on Illicit Sex in Song China (960-1279).

YI jian zhi (Book); HONG Mai; FORNICATION; CHINESE literature -- Song dynasty, 960-1279; HUMAN sexuality & history; HUMAN sexuality; MONKS; GOSSIP; HISTORY; CHINESE literature; LITERARY criticism

The article critiques the book "Yi jian zhi," or "Record of the Listener," compiled by scholar and official Hong Mai, focusing on representations of hejian, or consensual illicit sexual intercourse. It regards the work is an example of biji, or miscellaneous notes, from Song era China. The author comments on the sexual relations of commoners, servants, elites, and Buddhist and Daoist monks. Themes explored include female sexuality, gossip, and karmic retribution.