In 1368, the Ming Dynasty was established in Nanjing, China, marking a significant cultural shift as the new rulers sought to promote Confucian values and traditional Chinese culture. This period saw the revival of arts and literature, with an emphasis on historical texts and poetry that reflected the dynasty's ideals. The Ming's cultural policies fostered a flourishing of literary expression, which would influence poets and writers for generations to come.

The Ming Dynasty's cultural policies encouraged the creation of poetry that celebrated Confucian ideals and historical narratives. Poets like Xu Wei and Tang Xianzu emerged during this time, drawing inspiration from the rich cultural heritage promoted by the dynasty. The emphasis on literature and arts during this period laid the groundwork for later literary movements, including the development of the Chinese novel.