Is there an ending scene in “The Monkey”? This question often arises among fans of the classic Chinese novel, “Journey to the West.” The novel, written by Wu Cheng’en in the 16th century, is a masterpiece of Chinese literature that has captivated readers for centuries. The story follows the adventures of Sun Wukong, the Monkey King, and his journey to retrieve the sacred scriptures from the West. With its rich symbolism and intricate plot, many readers are left pondering the question: Does the story have a definitive ending scene? Let’s delve into this topic and explore the various interpretations of the ending of “The Monkey.”
The ending of “The Monkey” is a subject of much debate among scholars and readers alike. Some argue that the novel concludes with a clear-cut resolution, while others believe that it leaves the reader with an open-ended finale. The primary contention revolves around the fate of the Monkey King and his companions.
One interpretation suggests that the ending scene is indeed present. In the final chapter, the Monkey King, along with his fellow travelers, successfully retrieves the sacred scriptures from the West. Afterward, they return to the East, where they are welcomed by the Buddha. The Buddha rewards them for their efforts and grants them immortality. This ending provides a sense of closure, as the Monkey King achieves his ultimate goal and is rewarded for his perseverance and bravery.
However, another perspective posits that the novel does not have a definitive ending scene. This interpretation is based on the fact that the story is presented as a series of episodes, each with its own beginning, middle, and end. The narrative structure suggests that the story could continue beyond the final chapter. Furthermore, the ending of the novel leaves some questions unanswered, such as the Monkey King’s ultimate fate and the resolution of his internal struggles.
Supporters of this open-ended interpretation point to the fact that the novel was originally intended to be a series of short stories, and Wu Cheng’en never intended to write a complete, standalone work. As such, the ending of “The Monkey” could be seen as a deliberate choice to leave the reader’s imagination to fill in the blanks.
In conclusion, whether or not “The Monkey” has an ending scene is a matter of interpretation. While some readers may find satisfaction in the novel’s resolution, others may appreciate the open-ended nature of the story. Regardless of the interpretation, “The Monkey” remains a timeless classic that continues to inspire and captivate readers around the world. The enduring appeal of the novel lies in its ability to provoke thought and encourage readers to explore the various possibilities of the Monkey King’s journey.
