International students attend a lecture on A dream of Red Mansions. [Photo/Southeast University]

Southeast University's College of International Students organized a special event on June 23 aimed at introducing its students to A Dream of Red Mansions, hailed as one of China's "Four Great Classical Novels", to help them foster a deeper understanding of Chinese culture.

More than 20 students from countries including Russia, Algeria, Thailand, and Pakistan participated in the event. They attended a lecture by Miao Huaiming, vice-president of the Chinese Society of A Dream of Red Mansions, who elucidated the intricate connections between the novel and Chinese history, culture, and everyday life.

Addressing the global dissemination and transcultural influence of the literary work, Miao shared insights into various translations and scholarly research from different countries.

International students visit the Jiangning Imperial Silk Manufacturing Museum in Nanjing, Jiangsu. [Photo/Southeast University]

Nanjing is the hometown of the book's author, Cao Xueqin. The Nanjing Jiangning Imperial Silk Manufacturing Museum showcases part of the history and culture portrayed in the book.

Kuang Yinghui from Southeast University provided an in-depth explanation on the rise and fall of the Jiangning Imperial Silk Manufacturing Bureau where a main character in the novel was in charge.

During the event, the international students also had the opportunity to handcraft scented sachets, experiencing firsthand the aesthetic beauty depicted in the classical work.

Participating students learn to make scented sachets. [Photo/Southeast University]