中晚唐,文人有意為小說集,本論文探討《傳奇》集腋之寄,先梳理小說集中的篇章類型,再以裴鉶生平、〈道生旨〉、〈天威遙碑〉為佐證,辨析《傳奇》繼承六朝與唐前期小說敘事的傳統,開展情節,而其所呈現的道書與道術體現了裴氏對長生與神仙道的喜愛,邊境敘事雖奇卻有其依據,並不僅僅「與高駢沆瀣一氣」,也不是「非由本懷」的「諛導之作」。《傳奇》以奇入勝、融會道論與信史,成一己之言,同時承載裴鉶在晚唐自我安頓的矛盾,雖相信至誠必感卻又須因緣成道,仙緣際遇既融出世道情卻又展現人間愛情。《傳奇》雕文織采的詞藻、引人入勝的情節背後,既有裴鉶對於信仰的關懷,亦包含如何安身立命的情懷。
The literati of the mid to late Tang Dynasty wrote compilations of novels, and this article explores meanings behind Legend written by Pei Xing, and will begin by sorting chapters in the book according to different literary types. This article argues that Legend inherited the narrative traditions and plots from the Six Dynasties and early Tang Dynasty, and will provide evidence using the life experiences of Pei Xing and his works, "Longevity Guide" (dǎo sheng zhǐ) and the "Inscription of the Tianweiyao Tablet" (tiān wēi yáo bēi). Legend reflects the fondness Pei Xing had for Taoist theories and techniques, and his interest in longevity and immortality. Pei Xing wrote Legend not because he wanted to flatter the general Gao Pian, in fact, he did not want to associate himself with him at all. Although his peripheral narratives were filled with fantasy, they were in accordance with Taoist beliefs. The fantasy stories in Legend are a blend of Taoist theories and religious histories. They also reflect the dilemma Pei Xing had in the late Tang Dynasty; he is sincere to his belief and yet was required to resign to fate. The love stories between mortals and immortals also reflected his emotions for the world and love life. Behind the fascinating stories of Legend are the concerns Pei Xing had for his religious belief, and his approach to settling down in life.