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Originally titled Taishi Gong Shu (“Book of the Grand Historian”), the Shiji was compiled by Sima Qian (c. 145–c. 86 BCE) during the Western Han dynasty. It is China’s first comprehensive biographical universal history (jizhuanti tongshi), covering approximately three millennia – from the legendary Yellow Emperor to the reign of Emperor Wu of Han…
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Mencius said, “Benevolence brings glory, whereas its absence leads to disgrace. Now people hate disgrace and benevolence, just like those who hate dampness but live in a low-lying area.
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Brief: This article explores the tragic campaign of Wu Zixu against the State of Chu in 506 BCE. It details the brilliant military strategy of Sun Tzu that led to the capture of Ying, the Chu capital. The narrative focuses on Wu Zixu’s obsessive quest for vengeance against King Ping, culminating in the desecration…
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Brief: This article recounts the legendary assassination of King Liao of Wu by the warrior Zhuan Zhu. It details the political intrigue where Prince Guang (the rightful heir) recruited Zhuan Zhu to eliminate the usurper King Liao. To bypass the king’s heavy security, Zhuan Zhu spent three months mastering the culinary arts to become…
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Brief: This article recounts the desperate flight of Wu Zixu after the execution of his father and brother by King Ping of Chu. Fleeing to avoid a death sentence, he faced a seemingly impossible barrier: the heavily guarded Zhaoguan Pass. The narrative details his psychological torment, famously described as his hair turning white overnight…
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Brief: This article narrates the rise of King Zhuang of Chu, the “Silent Phoenix” and last of the Five Hegemons. It details his strategy of deliberate inaction, where he feigned decadence for three years to deceive the powerful minister Dou Yuejiao. The narrative highlights the famous “Riddle of the Bird,” his decisive victory in…