What are the common themes in Chinese ghost stories that are not erotic?

There are no proper 'erotic' ghost stories in the mainstream of Chinese literature. Chinese ghost stories mainly focus on themes like love, justice, and the cycle of karma. For instance, the theme of love between a human and a ghost often appears, which shows the power of love across different realms.

Morality is also a key theme. These stories often teach people to be kind, honest, and respectful. For instance, if a person is greedy or cruel in the story, they usually get punished. And family values are sometimes present too. There could be stories where a spirit tries to protect its family or descendants.

One common theme could be the interaction between the human and the supernatural. Ghosts often play a significant role in Chinese ghost stories, and in this one, it might be about the relationship that crosses the boundary between the living and the dead.

One common theme is revenge. Ghosts often return to seek vengeance for their unjust deaths. For example, in many stories, a wronged woman who was mistreated during her life might come back as a ghost to punish those who wronged her. Another theme is love that transcends death. There are tales of lovers where one has passed away but still tries to be with their living beloved in some way.

Well, often there's the theme of seduction. Ghosts in these stories are often depicted as alluring beings that draw the living into their world. There's also the theme of the unknown and the thrill that comes with it. The fact that the ghost is from another realm makes the erotic encounters seem more exciting and unpredictable. And sometimes there's a theme of transformation, where the encounter with the ghost changes the person in some way, perhaps making them more aware of their own desires.

One common theme is karma. Ghosts often appear to seek revenge or justice for the wrongs done to them during their lifetimes. For example, if someone was wrongly killed, their ghost might come back to punish the perpetrator.

Love is a common theme. Just like in 'The Legend of the White Snake', the love between the snake spirit and the human man is central. Another theme is the conflict between good and evil. In 'Nie Xiaoqian', Nie Xiaoqian represents the good side who wants to break free from the evil control.

The theme of mystery and the unknown is also very common. Chinese online ghost stories usually set in old, dilapidated places such as abandoned mansions or ancient temples. These places are full of mystery, and the ghosts add to the sense of the unknown. For example, in stories about haunted houses, there are always strange things happening that no one can really explain.

Fate is also a common theme. The idea that the ghosts and humans are fated to meet and fall in love is present in many stories. It gives the impression that their love is not just a random occurrence but something that is pre - ordained. In addition, the theme of redemption can be found in some stories. For example, a ghost may be redeemed through the love of a human, or vice versa, as they struggle against the dark forces that try to keep them apart.

One common theme is revenge. Ghosts in Chinese ghost stories often come back to take revenge on those who wronged them during their lifetime. Another theme is love that transcends death. There are stories where the love between a human and a ghost persists despite the barriers. And also, moral lessons are common. For example, if someone is greedy or cruel, they may be haunted by ghosts as a form of punishment.