The genre of 'farming literature' has gained popularity in China, particularly among women, according to an article by Sixth Tone [f2333ca8]. Originating from simulation video games where players build and expand their territories, farming literature has evolved into a literary genre that explores the lives of female protagonists in rural settings. Initially, farming literature targeted male readers and featured heroes who developed agricultural, economic, military, and political systems. However, with the emergence of time travel stories featuring modern women in ordinary family homes, the genre shifted to female-dominant web novels. These novels focus on a female protagonist's efforts to get rich while navigating demanding relatives. The genre emphasizes the simple and ordinary life of the protagonist, creating emotional resonance. Unlike traditional 'Mary Sue' characters, the main characters in farming literature adhere to a code of conduct that rejects bullying and being bullied. The genre reflects a pushback against the concept of a 'perfect woman' and the idealization of imperfect women. However, it also highlights the conservative nature of society and the limited space in which women fight to affirm themselves and find satisfaction [f2333ca8].
Jeremy Clarkson's reality TV show 'Clarkson's Farm' has become hugely successful in the UK and China, appealing to young people with no farming experience. The show has a 9.6 out of 10 rating on the Chinese review website Douban and has been watched over 5 million times on the Chinese streaming service BiliBili. Chinese viewers appreciate the show's portrayal of the challenges and hard work involved in farming, as well as its depiction of rural life. The popularity of shows about urbanites working on farms reflects a trend of rural nostalgia among Chinese urbanites. Clarkson's Farm is seen as a departure from the romanticized version of country life, as it shows the reality and struggles of farming. Chinese viewers find the show both funny and sad, and it provides them with a different perspective on the UK. [38bccf07].