Peonija, cvijet Istoka
A novel by American Nobel laureate Pearl S. Buck, set in the 19th century Chinese city of Kaifeng, known for its Jewish community. The story follows Peony, a young Chinese maid in the home of the prominent Jewish family of Ezra ben Israel.
Peony has been in love with Ezra's son David since childhood, but due to social norms and cultural differences, their love remains unspoken. David faces family pressure to marry into the Jewish community, while at the same time he is drawn to Chinese culture and Kueilan, the daughter of a Chinese merchant.
The novel explores themes of identity, assimilation, and preserving tradition. The Jewish community faces the challenges of integrating into Chinese society, balancing between preserving their faith and accepting local customs. Through Peony's eyes, the reader witnesses the conflict between love and duty, tradition and change.
Buck skillfully portrays cultural differences and similarities, showcasing the richness of both traditions. Peony's quiet devotion and sacrifice symbolize the universal search for belonging and love. The novel provides a profound insight into human nature and the complexity of interpersonal relationships within different cultural contexts.
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