-
The chicken-crowers and dog-thieves: Lord Mengchang [Warring States]
This article examines the controversial life of Lord Mengchang (Tian Wen), one of the “Four Lords” of the Warring States period. It contrasts his self-serving opportunism against the loyalty of his peers, detailing his betrayals of both Qin and his native Qi. The narrative highlights his famous escape from Qin—aided by retainers skilled in…
-
The peril of the ancestral temple in Xue [Warring States]
This article recounts the diplomatic rescue of Lord Mengchang’s fiefdom of Xue during the Warring States period. When the State of Chu invaded Xue, the renowned diplomat Chunyu Kun was tasked with saving it. Instead of pleading for help, Chunyu Kun used a brilliant rhetorical strategy: he convinced King Min of Qi that the…
-
Mencius – Chapter 2.16 When ritual becomes a political tool: Zang Cang vs. Mencius
Duke Ping of Lu was about to set out when his favorite courtier, Zang Cang, asked: “Usually, Your Lordship informs the officials of your destination before leaving. Now your carriage is ready, yet no one knows where you’re going. May I ask?”
-
Mencius – Chapter 2.15 To Flee or to Fight?
Duke Wen of Teng asked Mencius: “Teng is a small state. We’ve exhausted every effort to serve the large states, yet we still cannot escape their aggression. What should we do?”
-
Mencius – Chapter 2.14 Moral legacy over military fear
Duke Wen of Teng asked Mencius: “The people of Qi are building a fortress at Xue, and I am deeply afraid. What should I do?”
-
Mencius – Chapter 2.13 Defense strategy for small states
Duke Wen of Teng asked Mencius: “Teng is a small state, squeezed between the great powers of Qi and Chu. Should we submit to Qi, or align ourselves with Chu?”