1397

2020

Books

Xu Xian is a central character in the classic Chinese folktale, *Legend of the White Snake* (白蛇傳, Bái Shé Zhuàn). He is a young, kind-hearted, but somewhat naive, pharmacist's assistant residing in Hangzhou.

His life takes an extraordinary turn when he encounters Bai Suzhen, a powerful white snake spirit who has taken human form. Unaware of her true nature, Xu Xian is captivated by her beauty and grace, and they quickly fall in love and marry.

Throughout the story, Xu Xian is often caught between his love for Bai Suzhen and the warnings of the Buddhist monk, Fa Hai, who recognizes Bai Suzhen as a dangerous demon. He struggles to reconcile his human understanding with the supernatural realities surrounding him.

While initially portrayed as weak and easily manipulated, Xu Xian demonstrates courage and devotion as the tale progresses. He ultimately plays a key role in the events that shape Bai Suzhen's destiny and accepts the consequences of his love for her.