Qianlong Emperor Set of Six Volumes

Author: Eryuehe
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2000-10-01
Features: This series depicts the tragic death of the Yongzheng Emperor and the ascension of the 25-year-old Qianlong Emperor to the throne. Driven by great ambition, Qianlong aimed to become an emperor surpassing all others and dedicated himself to creating a prosperous era for the Great Qing Dynasty. He adhered to the policy of "governing with leniency," abolishing the harsh policies of the previous dynasty. He valued honest and capable officials, promoted new talents, reformed the bureaucracy, and severely punished corrupt officials. He worked diligently, reduced taxes, allowed the people to rest and recuperate, and frequently visited in disguise to understand the people's livelihoods. He sent capable officials to provide relief and aid to the disaster-stricken, preventing unrest. He led military campaigns against the Daxing Jin, Xinjiang, and Taiwan to suppress rebellions. He commissioned Ji Tao to oversee the compilation of the Siku Quanshu to win the hearts of scholars across the land. The Qianlong era gradually progressed toward a prosperous and flourishing age. However, at the same time, conflicts over land and wealth intensified, corruption and debauchery in the court reached an all-time high, border threats persisted, and crises loomed. Like a tree that grows hollow at its core, the empire declined as the later years of Qianlong were marked by excessive ambition, numerous misgovernances, and the appointment of sycophants like Heshen while dismissing virtuous officials. The state gradually slid into decline.
Eryuehe vividly portrays the vast social landscape of the Qianlong era in his works. From the highest halls of power to the farthest reaches of the countryside, his stories encompass the imperial court, noblewomen's quarters, bustling markets, rural areas, battlefields, and entertainment districts, showcasing the historical fluctuations in politics, economy, military, and culture of the Qianlong era. Rich in cultural depth, his works can be considered an encyclopedia of the mid-Qing Dynasty. At the same time, the author meticulously portrays the intricate political machinations, strategic military campaigns, diverse scholars and literati, and the harsh realities of the world with exquisite detail, expressing them with profound depth and vividness. His works possess strong artistic appeal and are currently his most mature and outstanding long-form achievements.