5. Xu Wei created a marriage for his heroine
Xu Wei created new aspects of the Mulan legend, including the family name of Hua (flower). He also included previously known stories, such as Mulan appearing before the Emperor and receiving an offer of a bureaucratic office within the government. An offer to serve in the government implies that Mulan was trained in both literary and government affairs. Such a position has required her to understand and enforce laws and procedures. In the play, Mulan rejects the offer. In the ballad, she merely requests a speedy horse to carry her home. The play has her reject the offer, asking to return home to care for her aging parents. She then promises to return to government service at a later date.
In the play, after returning home she reveals herself to fellow soldiers, and applies a lotion to her enlarged feet. The formula restores them to a socially acceptable tiny appearance, making her acceptable as a bride. A son of a scholar in her hometown of Hubei (according to the play), appreciative of her act of loyalty and sacrifice, asks to marry her. The play closes with their wedding, when Mulan appears shy, and blushes when her husband bows to her in the traditional manner. Her mother scolds Mulan, wondering how a woman who could fearlessly lead men into battle, could appear so demure. Xu Wei’s play ends with Mulan no longer a legendary woman warrior, but a dutiful and devoted daughter and wife.