Xue Pan

Xue Pan (薛蟠), also known as Xue Wenlong (薛文龍), is a fictional character in the classic Chinese novel Dream of the Red Chamber (also known as The Story of the Stone). He is the elder brother of Xue Baochai, one of the principal female characters.

Xue Pan is depicted as a boorish, arrogant, and often cruel young man, more interested in sensual pleasures and bullying others than in proper conduct or education. He is the heir to the Xue family fortune, derived from their merchant activities, specifically as purveyors of imperial provisions. This wealth, however, is poorly managed, largely due to Xue Pan's incompetence and lack of discipline.

His character serves as a foil to the more refined and virtuous characters in the novel, highlighting the corrupting influence of wealth and unchecked privilege. Xue Pan's ill-considered actions frequently lead to trouble for himself and those around him. He is known for his violent temper and his lustful pursuits, often attempting to force himself on unwilling women.

Xue Pan’s marriage is a significant event in the narrative. His wife, Xia Jingui, is initially presented as beautiful and well-mannered but later reveals herself to be equally manipulative and vicious, leading to a tumultuous and unhappy marriage filled with conflict and abuse. This relationship further emphasizes the negative consequences of Xue Pan's poor judgment and character flaws. He eventually leaves home to escape her influence.

Despite his negative traits, Xue Pan is not portrayed as entirely unsympathetic. There are moments where his basic humanity is revealed, particularly in his interactions with his mother and sister. However, these moments are fleeting and do not excuse his generally reprehensible behavior.