Articulating love: the narrative mechanisms and allegories of subjectivity in Chinese romance micro-dramas

Abstract This paper focuses on popular Chinese romantic costume micro-dramas, primarily exploring their narrative mechanisms and the therapeutic significance of society. The plots unfold within fictional temporal and spatial settings removed from reality. This study further identifies the shared narrative pattern in micro-dramas, where transparent and familiar storylines enable the audience to comfortably immerse themselves. These micro-dramas generally adhere to the romantic narrative motif of “quest-fulfillment”, offering audiences the freedom to engage in a state of ennui, whilst providing a therapeutic experience that nurtures an emotional connection to love. The narrative model of multiple praises of love, constructed by lovers as faithful subjects, connects love to social reform, presenting an idealised allegory of subjectivity. Although micro-dramas have not innovated or become anti-genre productions, the social therapy they provide are nonetheless valuable.