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Introduction: This article recounts the harrowing tale of Sun Bin and his descent into a feigned madness to survive the treachery of his former classmate, Pang Juan, during the Warring States period. It details how Pang Juan, jealous of Sun Bin’s superior military genius, framed him, leading to the cruel punishment of kneecap removal…
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Brief: This article chronicles the epic journey of Duke Wen of Jin (Ji Chong’er), one of China’s Five Hegemons. It details his nineteen years of exile, marked by humiliation – such as begging for food at Wulu – and the fierce loyalty of his retainers. The narrative highlights his diplomatic promise to “retreat three…
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Brief: This article recounts the tragic story of Duke Yi of Wei, a ruler whose obsession with cranes led to the downfall of his state during the Spring and Autumn period. It details how he appointed “crane generals,” granting them high ranks and chariots reserved for nobles, while neglecting his ministers and burdening the…