Case Study: Mo Dao Zu Shi
(Grandmaster of Demonic
Cultivation)
1. Overview
Chinese Title: Mo Dao Zu Shi (魔道祖师)
Author: Mo Xiang Tong Xiu (MXTX)
Genres: Xianxia (fantasy cultivation), Danmei (BL), Mystery, Horror, Drama
Initial Format: Serialized web novel on JJWXC
Adaptations:
Donghua (Animated series): 2018–2021
Manhua (Comic): Ongoing
Audio Drama: Released in full
Live-action Drama: The Untamed (陈情令), 2019
2. Plot Summary
The story follows Wei Wuxian, a brilliant yet controversial cultivator who dies
and is reincarnated 13 years later. Upon his return, he reunites with Lan
Wangji, a stoic and principled cultivator. Together, they investigate
unresolved mysteries that connect to their pasts and the political turmoil of
the cultivation world. The narrative unfolds as both a suspenseful adventure
and a deeply emotional slow-burn romance.
3. Themes and Literary Significance
Morality vs. Reputation: Challenges the idea that societal reputation
equals virtue.
Romansssstic and Emotional Intimacy: Central to the plot is the
profound, romantic bond between Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji.
Spiritual Cultivation as Allegory: Used as a metaphor for resisting
corrupt authority and pursuing personal truth.
Queer Subtext in Oppressive Contexts: Represents a subtle but
powerful depiction of queer love in a restrictive socio-political
environment.
4. Censorship and Adaptive Strategies
Novel: The romantic relationship is explicit, including emotional and physical
intimacy.
Live-action (The Untamed): The relationship is reinterpreted as a deep,
non-romantic "brotherhood" due to censorship. Romantic elements are
conveyed through visual symbolism, music, and subtext.
Donghua and Audio Drama: These adaptations retain more romantic
tension and are more faithful to the source, though still moderated for
compliance with media regulations.
5. Global Reach and Cultural Impact
International Availability: The Untamed was released on platforms
like Netflix, bringing danmei into global consciousness.
Fandom Engagement: The story generated a massive international
fandom, including fanfiction, fanart, fan translations, cosplay, and
merchandise.
Entry Point to Danmei: For many, Mo Dao Zu Shi served as the first
exposure to Chinese BL/danmei literature, expanding the global
interest in the genre.
6. AO3 Controversy
In 2020, a fanfiction work based on Mo Dao Zu Shi led to a coordinated
report campaign by internet users that resulted in the Chinese government
blocking Archive of Our Own (AO3). This incident revealed the fragile
relationship between fan culture, state censorship, and digital freedoms in
China, particularly concerning LGBTQ+ media.
7. Comparative Analysis
Adaptat Fidelity to Audience
Characteristics
ion Source Reception
Web Full romantic arc, detailed Widely acclaimed
High
Novel worldbuilding by fans
High-quality animation, symbolic
Donghua Moderate Critically praised
romance
Audio Maintains romantic content and
High Very well-received
Drama dialogue
Visual storytelling with romantic Popular on digital
Manhua High
cues platforms
The
Romance implied, focuses on Low to Massive global
Untame
“brotherhood” Moderate success
d
8. Why Mo Dao Zu Shi Matters
Cultural Impact: Blends traditional Chinese fantasy with modern
queer storytelling.
Narrative Innovation: Successfully merges political intrigue, fantasy,
and romance.
Censorship Resistance: Demonstrates how fans and creators
maintain narrative integrity under regulatory pressure.
Global Influence: Set a precedent for international interest in Chinese
danmei media and helped establish it as a genre with worldwide
appeal.
9. Conclusion
Mo Dao Zu Shi represents a turning point in Chinese danmei literature.
Through rich storytelling, innovative adaptations, and global dissemination, it
has become both a cultural phenomenon and a case study in how queer
narratives navigate censorship. Its influence on fandom, media production,
and international reception continues to shape how danmei is perceived and
consumed worldwide.
