This paper discusses how the novel, Sanguo yanyi, applies the aesthetic principle of parallelism in structuring its discourse and in conveying its different layers of meaning. It points out that various characters and events in different parts of the novel correspond to each other, based on their similarities and contrasts, forming a parallel structure of narration. This structure realizes important results in two aspects: first, it provides close linkage and correspondence of the characters and events, avoiding a loose structure for the novel, and second, it strengthens the integration and consistency of the novel.