Family Lesson Plan

What does the reaction of the Kao family to the street fighting in Chengdu reveal about the strength or weakness of their family?

On the one hand, the Kao family's concern about looting affirms their status and wealth in comparison to others also living in Chengtu. However, the fact that such fighting can so profoundly upend their lives arguably shows that they are living in dangerous new times where stability, power, and fortune can no longer quite be taken for granted. This is one of the most historically accurate aspects of Pa Chin's representation of this period of Chinese history.

How does the conquering General Chang end up ruling Chengtu? Why do you think...