-
The Art of Feigned Weakness: Modu Chanyu’s Annihilation of the Donghu
This article explains Sun Tzu’s tactic of feigning humility to inflate enemy arrogance. Modu Chanyu yielded treasures and his wife to lull Donghu, then crushed them. It also parallels Lu Xun’s flattering ploy that tricked arrogant Guan Yu into losing Jingzhou.
-
Sun Tzu’s Stratagem of “Irritate the Enemy” and Two Classic Historical Lessons
This article explains Sun Tzu’s tactic of provoking hot-tempered foes. Two contrasts: Cao Jiu lost Chenggao after being insulted into reckless battle, while Sima Yi stayed calm amid humiliating gifts and outlasted Zhuge Liang, proving emotional control wins wars.
-
Avoid the Enemy’s Full Strength – The Story of Chu’s Invasion of Sui
This article illustrates Sun Tzu’s rule “evade strong foes” via Chu’s invasion of Sui. Wise Ji Liang advised striking Chu’s weak right flank, yet the vain Sui lord fought their elite left wing head-on, suffering a crushing defeat due to blind pride over rational tactics.
-
Zuo Zhuan (The Commentary of Zuo)
Zuo Zhuan is a prominent ancient Chinese historical text, traditionally attributed to Zuo Qiuming of the Spring and Autumn period. It is also known as Zuo’s Commentary on the Spring and Autumn Annals or The Spring and Autumn Annals of Zuo.
-
Wisdom from The Art of War Reflected in the Battle of Xiangfan
This article analyzes the Battle of Xiangfan through Sun Tzu’s strategies. Sima Yi urged Cao Cao to ally with Wu, luring Sun Quan with territory to attack Guan Yu’s rear. Arrogant Guan Yu ignored hidden threats, lost Jingzhou, embodying the cost of ignoring diplomatic and deceptive warfare principles.
-
The Fatal Hubris of Guan Yu: A Cautionary Tale from the Three Kingdoms
Based on The Art of War, this article analyzes Guan Yu’s ruinous arrogance. Wu’s Lü Meng and Lu Xun used feigned weakness and flattering words to relax his vigilance. Guan Yu moved rear troops north, lost Jingzhou, and his defeat crippled Shu Han’s unification ambitions.