SuaveG – The Gentle Path

Chinese mythology, folktales, and literature

Shu Han

  • Attack the Unprepared, Strike Unexpectedly: Deng Ai’s deadly surprise march that ended Shu Han

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    Rob

    This article illustrates the tactic of striking unprepared foes via Deng Ai’s risky Yinping march. Bypassing heavily guarded Jiange Pass through harsh unguarded mountains, Deng Ai launched a surprise assault on Chengdu, toppling Shu Han by breaking the enemy’s fixed defensive mindset.

  • Wisdom from The Art of War Reflected in the Battle of Xiangfan

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    Rob

    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

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    Rob

    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.

  • How Mao evaluated Liu Bei?

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    Juan

    This article presents Mao Zedong’s comments on Liu Bei. He praised Liu Bei for talent management and unity-building, yet criticized his emotional decisions and flawed strategies, especially the disastrous Yiling Campaign with tactical mistakes.

  • Zhuge Liang

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    Juan

    Zhuge Liang (181–234 CE) was a preeminent statesman and military strategist of the Shu Han state during the Three Kingdoms period. His courtesy name was Kongming, and he was born in Yangdu, Langya Commandery (in present-day Yinan County, Shandong).

  • Liu Yuan and the Rebirth of an Empire [Jin & Southern-Northern Dynasties]

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    Juan

    This article traces Liu Yuan’s rise from a Xiongnu hostage in Luoyang to founder of the Han Kingdom. Amid the War of the Eight Princes, he united tribes, adopted Han legitimacy, and challenged Western Jin. His bold reign launched the era of the Sixteen Kingdoms and reshaped China’s north.

  • When victory breeds doom [Three Kingdoms]

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    Rob

    This article recounts the fall of Shu Han and the tragic fates of Deng Ai, Zhong Hui, and Jiang Wei. After Deng Ai’s daring strike conquered Chengdu, his arrogance sparked rivalry. Jiang Wei plotted to restore Shu by inciting Zhong Hui’s rebellion. All three perished in chaos, while Liu Shan’s contented captivity became a…

  • Zhuge Liang’s self-demotion [Three Kingdoms]

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    Rob

    This article tells of Zhuge Liang’s first Northern Expedition. He won early victories and recruited Jiang Wei, but Ma Su’s blunder lost Jieting. Though grieved, Zhuge punished Ma Su, took full blame, and requested demotion. His integrity and accountability became a timeless model of leadership.

  • The Seven Captures of Meng Huo [Three Kingdoms]

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    Rob

    This article tells Zhuge Liang’s legendary southern campaign to pacify Nanzhong. Following the “win hearts” strategy, he captured and released Meng Huo seven times. Finally subdued, Meng Huo swore lifelong loyalty. This wisdom secured Shu’s southern border, clearing the way for Zhuge’s Northern Expeditions.