This book is a critical anthology that showcases the rich tradition of comic literature from medieval China. Spanning jokes, satires, witty poetry, humorous anecdotes, anthropomorphic biographies, and comedy theatre, this collection provides readers with a unique glimpse into the humor and societal dynamics of Middle Period China.

Expertly translated by leading scholars, the anthology features critical prefaces and annotations that contextualize the works for contemporary readers. Two substantial general introductions offer an overview of the development of humor writing in China and establishes a framework for cross-cultural comparison with Western comic traditions. This volume combines scholarly rigor with accessible translations, making it an invaluable resource for understanding medieval Chinese culture.

Laughter, Humor, and Comedy in Middle Period China, 600–1300 is designed for scholars, educators, and students of premodern China, comparative literature, Global History, and Global Medieval Studies.