Understanding "赵氏孤儿·煞尾" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 赵氏孤儿·煞尾
• Pinyin: Zhào shì gū'ér · shā wěi
• Literal Meaning: "The Orphan of Zhao · Finale"
• Primary Meaning: Refers to the concluding part of the classic Chinese play The Orphan of Zhao, specifically the dramatic resolution or ending scene.

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

"赵氏孤儿·煞尾" is a term rooted in traditional Chinese theater, particularly associated with the famous Yuan dynasty play The Orphan of Zhao (赵氏孤儿). The "煞尾" (shā wěi) denotes the final act or climax of the story, where loose ends are tied up, and the moral or emotional impact is delivered.

In modern usage, this phrase can metaphorically describe the dramatic conclusion of any event or narrative, especially one with historical or emotional weight. It’s often used in literary or artistic discussions.

Character Breakdown

• 赵氏 (Zhào shì): "Zhao Clan" – Refers to the noble family central to the play’s plot.
• 孤儿 (gū'ér): "Orphan" – The protagonist, the sole survivor of the Zhao family.
• 煞尾 (shā wěi): "Finale" or "climactic end" – A theatrical term for the concluding scene.

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 这部戏的赵氏孤儿·煞尾部分让观众泪流满面。
   Pinyin: Zhè bù xì de Zhào shì gū'ér · shā wěi bùfèn ràng guānzhòng lèiliú mǎnmiàn.
   English: The finale of The Orphan of Zhao in this play moved the audience to tears.

2. Chinese: 导演精心设计了赵氏孤儿·煞尾的场景，震撼人心。
   Pinyin: Dǎoyǎn jīngxīn shèjìle Zhào shì gū'ér · shā wěi de chǎngjǐng, zhènhàn rénxīn.
   English: The director meticulously designed the climactic scene of The Orphan of Zhao, which was soul-stirring.

3. Chinese: 这个故事的高潮就像赵氏孤儿·煞尾一样悲壮。
   Pinyin: Zhège gùshì de gāocháo jiù xiàng Zhào shì gū'ér · shā wěi yīyàng bēizhuàng.
   English: The climax of this story is as tragic and heroic as the finale of The Orphan of Zhao.

Cultural Notes

The Orphan of Zhao is one of China’s most enduring classical plays, dating back to the Yuan dynasty (13th–14th century). It tells a story of revenge, sacrifice, and loyalty, deeply rooted in Confucian values. The "煞尾" (finale) often symbolizes justice restored and moral lessons emphasized, reflecting traditional Chinese storytelling’s emphasis on poetic justice.

The play has been adapted into various forms, including Peking opera, films, and even Western adaptations (e.g., Voltaire’s The Orphan of China).

Conclusion

"赵氏孤儿·煞尾" refers to the powerful conclusion of The Orphan of Zhao, a classic Chinese play. It represents both a literal theatrical finale and a metaphor for dramatic, emotionally charged endings. Understanding this term offers insight into Chinese literary traditions and cultural storytelling.

Remember:
- Zhào shì gū'ér = The Orphan of Zhao
- shā wěi = climactic finale
Use it to describe impactful conclusions in art or life!