Abstract: The concept "modern xiqu" is used usually in three senses: First, it refers to all xiqu works of the modern period; second, it refers to some xiqu works that depict modern life; third, as a theatrical and a cultural term, it covers works with the quality of modernity. These meanings apply to different fields, but both the first and the second overlook the connotation of modernity. When discussing the modernity of "modern xiqu", professor Lü Xiaoping emphasizes both modern spirit and the dramatic principle of "the unity of plot", and professor Fu Jin emphasizes virtuosity and the subsequent self-discipline and popularity. This article argues that both the dramatic principle and virtuosity are only sufficient conditions but not necessary conditions of "modern xiqu", because its core is modern spirit and idea. In a word, "modern xiqu" refers to xiqu works adapted and created by modern dramatists with modern spirit and idea.

Key words: modern xiqu, the unity of plot, modernity, virtuosity, enlightenment discourse