Why are The Journey to the West the four classic novels?

The Journey to the West is one of China's classical novels and regarded as the classic of China's ancient novels. It is listed as one of China's ancient novels "Four Great Classical Novels" for the following reasons:

1. Literary value: The Journey to the West is one of the outstanding representatives of ancient China literature, which depicts a rich mythical world, as well as the richness and diversity of characters, events and plots. Its literary value lies in its exquisite language, vivid image and high artistic value.

2. Historical value: The Journey to the West reflects the historical and cultural background of ancient China society, including religious beliefs, social systems and moral concepts. It also reflects the political and cultural characteristics of ancient China, and has high historical value.

3. Influence: The Journey to the West is one of the representative works of China's ancient novels, which spread widely and had a profound influence on China's culture and literature. Its influence lies in the inspiration and influence on later literary works, and the inheritance and development of China culture.

4. Characters: The characters in The Journey to the West are deeply rooted in people's hearts, such as the Monkey King, Tang Priest, Pig Bajie and Friar Sand. These Chinese characters have become a part of China culture and are widely used in literature, art and entertainment.

Therefore, The Journey to the West is regarded as a classic in China's ancient novels and an important part of China culture, and is listed as one of the "four classic novels".