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Features:
- Popular: This is a bilingual edition of Zizhi Tongjian, which includes both the original classical Chinese text and its vernacular translation. All translations are clear and easy to read, making it accessible even for those less familiar with ancient Chinese. Thus, you can easily read the entire Zizhi Tongjian without expertise in classical literature.
- Elegant: This is an illustrated edition of Zizhi Tongjian, featuring thousands of exquisite photographs of unearthed artifacts and artworks from the Warring States to the Five Dynasties periods, alongside calligraphy and art pieces. These images enhance the reader's sense of history, providing a deeper appreciation of the era while reading. This publishing format is unique in the history of Zizhi Tongjian publications in China.
- Grandiose: The book is printed in the international standard 16K format, with a grand ten-volume set, exquisitely bound, making it both a pleasure to read and a fine collectible. The compilation of Zizhi Tongjian was not merely to record the major and minor historical events of the 1,362 years it covers but also to summarize the political experiences and lessons learned during that time. History has proven that the existence, consolidation, and development of political rule depend on summarizing and learning from past experience and lessons. Zizhi Tongjian substantiates this with numerous historical facts.
The preface to Zizhi Tongjian by Emperor Shenzong of Song praised the book: "It records the wise rulers and loyal ministers who earnestly discussed governance, their profound words on political theory, their just laws and punishments, the interactions between heaven and humanity, the omens of fortune and misfortune, the roots of power and decline, the effects of grand strategies and policies, and the teachings of capable officials and capable generals. It judges right and wrong, emphasizes governance or neglect, presents the depths and richness of language, and conveys the sincerity of admonition—comprehensive in every aspect."
The book shows the "successes and failures of predecessors," hence its name, Zizhi Tongjian (Comprehensive Mirror for Aid in Governance). From Emperor Shenzong's naming of the book, we can understand its true significance. In reality, Zizhi Tongjian is the political history of ancient Chinese society, the rise and fall of dynasties, and a thought-provoking social and intellectual history. From it, people can learn not only about Chinese history but also how to understand Chinese politics, society, bureaucracy, and people.
Thus, Hu Sheng, a famous Yuan Dynasty historian who wrote detailed annotations for Zizhi Tongjian, said in his preface: "The way of governance exists everywhere, scattered among events. By observing the successes and failures of events, one can understand the imperfections of governance for all generations."
"If a ruler does not know Zizhi Tongjian, they will desire governance without understanding its principles or seek order without knowing how to prevent chaos. If a subject does not know Zizhi Tongjian, they will fail to serve their ruler or govern their people. If a son does not know Zizhi Tongjian, their plans for personal life may bring shame upon their ancestors, and their actions may leave no legacy. As for commanding armies or establishing institutions, if one does not learn from the past's successes and failures, they will seek victory only to lose and aim for profit only to harm—this is inevitable."
These words perfectly express the immense historical and social significance of Zizhi Tongjian. It provides lessons in governance (zhi han, zhi zhi, zhi hu zhi dao), which concern the people. Without reading Zizhi Tongjian, you will not understand Chinese politics.
What animal is the worst? Humans! Which country has the smartest people? China! Which people have the richest political wisdom? Chinese people!
After reading Zizhi Tongjian, you will understand why almost every Chinese person is a master strategist. Even if they have never read the book, their behavior and conduct often align with its stories because they already know many of the great principles of human conduct, even without reading. In the book, there are countless tales teaching people how to stand firm in their character and conduct.
Okay, here is the translation following your instructions: Illustrated Text with Colloquial and Literary Chinese Contrast Zizhi Tongjian (Complete 10 Volumes)
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