The Taiyue Mountains (simplified: 太岳, traditional: 太岳, pinyin: Tàiyuè, jyutping: taai3 ngok6), also written 太岳山 Tàiyuè Shān, were a mountain range appearing in Mandarin Duck Blades, associated with the Four Xias of Taiyue (太岳四侠 — Tàiyuè Sìxiá). Taiyue is the ancient name of modern-day Mount Tianzhu (天柱山) in Anqing, Anhui Province.
Geography
The Taiyue Mountains (太岳) were the ancient name for what is now Mount Tianzhu in Anhui. In the novel they serve as the base or region associated with the Four Xias of Taiyue, a group of martial artists who took their name from these mountains. The mountains’ location and terrain made them suitable for martial arts training and as a base for the xias’ activities.
Historical significance
Association with martial artists
The Taiyue Mountains were most notable for their association with the Four Xias of Taiyue, a group of martial artists who took their name from these mountains. This association connected the mountains to the jianghu world and martial arts culture.
Natural setting
The mountains’ natural setting provided an appropriate backdrop for martial arts activities and the xias’ way of life. The remote and rugged terrain of the mountains suited the independent and chivalrous nature of the xias.
In Mandarin Duck Blades
In Mandarin Duck Blades, the Taiyue Mountains appear as the region associated with the Four Xias of Taiyue. The mountains’ connection to this group of martial artists made them an important location in the novel’s jianghu world.
Behind the scenes
The Taiyue Mountains’ presence in Mandarin Duck Blades helps establish the geographical context of the jianghu world. The mountains’ association with the Four Xias of Taiyue adds depth to the novel’s portrayal of martial arts culture and the various groups that populated the jianghu.
See also
- Four Xias of Taiyue — The group of martial artists associated with these mountains
- Mandarin Duck Blades locations