Often, there is an initial agreement for practical reasons in 'contract marriage' Chinese novels. For example, one might need to solve a family problem or gain some business benefits. Then, as the story progresses, the relationship between the two main characters starts to change from a cold contractual one to a more emotional one.
Most of these novels focus on the development of the relationship between the two in the contract marriage. There will be many plot conflicts, like misunderstandings caused by family members or ex - lovers. The characters need to face these problems and in the process, their feelings for each other deepen. Also, cultural elements in Chinese society are often reflected, such as family values and the importance of face.
These novels also tend to have elements of romance, drama, and sometimes comedy. The settings can vary widely, from modern - day cities to historical or even fantasy worlds. The development of the relationship between the two main characters is at the heart of the story, and the contract serves as the starting point and often a source of conflict throughout the novel.
In best contract marriage novels, the plot often revolves around the two characters getting to know each other in an unexpected way. At first, they might be strangers or just acquaintances who come together because of the contract. There's a sense of forced proximity which leads to them discovering new things about each other. The novels also tend to have a lot of emotional highs and lows. As the characters start to have feelings for each other, there are misunderstandings and challenges that come up, like when they wonder if the other person really loves them or is just following the contract terms.
In Chinese novels, marriage is often related to family honor and social status. For example, in traditional Chinese novels, a good marriage can bring glory to the family. And it's also closely tied to filial piety, as children's marriages are sometimes arranged by their parents to fulfill family duties.
One characteristic is the fast - paced relationship development. In these novels, the characters often get married or enter into a serious relationship very quickly, without much time for long - term courtship. For example, in some novels, the couple might meet and decide to get married within a few days or weeks.
Predestined marriage in Chinese novels usually has some supernatural elements. Take 'The Legend of White Snake' as an example. Bai Suzhen's love for Xu Xian is fated by the heavens. Their relationship is tested by various forces, including those from the divine world, which shows that the predestined marriage is not only a matter between two individuals but also related to a larger cosmic order.
Often, fated marriage in Chinese novels is accompanied by signs or omens. These can be strange dreams, the appearance of rare animals or special celestial phenomena. The characters may not understand these signs at first, but as the story progresses, they realize that these were indications of their fated marriage. And sometimes, fated marriage is used to promote the development of the overall plot. It can lead to the discovery of secrets, the rise or fall of families or clans, and the transformation of the characters themselves.
These novels usually show a transformation of the relationship. It starts off as a rather cold and business - like contract but then transforms into a passionate and loving bond. The setting in Urdu novels is often very detailed, whether it's a big family house or a small village. This setting plays a role in the development of the contract - based marriage relationship. Also, cultural values and traditions are deeply intertwined in the story, which affects how the characters approach their contract marriage and the subsequent romance.
They often feature a pre - arranged marriage as a central plot device. This creates a situation where the characters have to navigate their relationship within the constraints of this contract. For example, in some novels, the couple may start off disliking each other due to the forced nature of the marriage, but gradually fall in love as they get to know each other better.
One popular 'contract marriage' Chinese novel is 'Love O2O'. It tells a story about a virtual love in a game that turns into a contract marriage in real life, full of sweet and interesting plot twists.
Often, these novels also show the development of characters within the marriage. A character might be shy and inexperienced before marriage, but after getting married, they become more mature and confident in handling relationship problems. This transformation is an important part of the 'love after marriage' theme in Chinese novels as it reflects the impact of marriage on personal growth and the evolution of love.