Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the phenomenon of "mourning the Ming Dynasty" in contemporary Chinese culture, exploring its origins, implications, and the emotional responses it evokes in society [20][36][48]. Group 1: Historical Context - The concept of mourning the Ming Dynasty has roots in the early 20th century, influenced by the Redology school, which viewed literary works as reflections of political events and historical figures [36][41]. - The sentiment of mourning the Ming is linked to the historical narrative that positions the Qing Dynasty as a negative force, leading to a romanticized view of the Ming as a lost ideal [41][42]. Group 2: Cultural Impact - The mourning sentiment has permeated various forms of media, including literature, games, and music, where references to the Ming Dynasty attract significant attention and engagement [20][22][23]. - The phenomenon has evolved into a trend where any content associated with the Ming Dynasty garners increased viewership, indicating a collective nostalgia and emotional investment in this historical narrative [20][22]. Group 3: Emotional and Social Dynamics - The mourning of the Ming Dynasty serves as a form of emotional expression and anxiety relief, reflecting a collective desire to confront historical grievances and current insecurities [48][57]. - The article highlights the divisive nature of this sentiment, where discussions around the Ming and Qing Dynasties can lead to heated debates and social tensions, showcasing the complexities of historical interpretation in modern society [52][59]. Group 4: Future Implications - The article suggests that the fixation on historical narratives, such as mourning the Ming, may hinder a balanced understanding of history and impede progress in contemporary society [74]. - It emphasizes the importance of appreciating the current era's stability and peace, rather than being consumed by past grievances, advocating for a more constructive approach to historical discourse [74].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the phenomenon of "mourning the Ming Dynasty" in contemporary Chinese culture, highlighting how various forms of media, including popular animations like "Pleasant Goat and Big Big Wolf," have been interpreted as allegories for the Ming Dynasty's fall and the subsequent Qing Dynasty's rise [1][4][10]. Group 1: Cultural Interpretation - "Pleasant Goat and Big Big Wolf" is viewed as a reflection of the Ming-Qing transition, with characters symbolizing historical figures and events from the Ming Dynasty [4][7]. - The sheep represent the Ming Dynasty, while the wolves symbolize the Qing Dynasty, creating a narrative of conflict and eventual reconciliation [7][10]. - The internet culture has embraced the "mourning the Ming" theme, with content creators leveraging this narrative to attract viewership and engagement [10][11]. Group 2: Historical Context - The mourning sentiment for the Ming Dynasty has historical roots, influenced by the political and social upheavals of the early 20th century, particularly during the fall of the Qing Dynasty [19][24]. - The emotional response to the Ming's fall is tied to a collective memory of national humiliation during the Qing era, which has been emphasized in educational narratives [26][28]. - This historical context has led to a dichotomy where the Ming is idealized as a symbol of national pride, contrasting sharply with the negative perception of the Qing [24][26]. Group 3: Modern Implications - The current trend of "mourning the Ming" reflects deeper societal anxieties and a desire for national identity amidst modern challenges [31][37]. - The phenomenon has sparked debates on social media, with some advocating for a cessation of this narrative, arguing it trivializes historical suffering [31][34]. - The article suggests that this fixation on historical grievances may hinder societal progress and unity, emphasizing the need for a balanced perspective on history [49][51].