Romance of the Sui and Tang Dynasties

Author: Chu Renhuo
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2002-01-01
Features: This book follows the timeline and history from the unification of the world under the Sui dynasty after its conquest of Chen, the founding of the Tang dynasty, Wu Zetian's usurpation of the throne, to Xuanzong's restoration. It narrates the deeds of Sui dynasty heroes and Tang dynasty founding figures such as Qin Shubao and Shan Xiongxin, as well as the extravagant and luxurious court life of Emperor Yang of the Sui dynasty, the loving relationship between Emperor Minghuang and Yang Guifei, and even the Xuanwu Gate Incident. It also covers Wu Zetian's ascension to the throne, the An Lushan Rebellion, and more. The 100-capter Romance of the Sui and Tang (Su Tang Yanyi), published during the reign of Emperor Kangxi of the Qing dynasty, is a masterpiece of Sui-Tang historical fiction and one of the finest historical romance novels of the Qing era. The author, Chu Renhuo, a scholarly and insightful figure, believed that if official histories could be likened to a "great ledger of all time," then romance novels could serve as a "small ledger." Romance of the Sui and Tang is a comprehensive collection of stories, legends, and tales from official histories, unofficial records, personal notes, and novels of the Sui-Tang period, truly deserving of the title "small ledger." The book covers over 170 years of Sui-Tang history, focusing on three main aspects: the romantic tales of Emperor Yang of the Sui dynasty, the passionate affairs of Emperor Minghuang and Yang Guifei, and the stories of Sui-Tang heroes such as Qin Shubao, Shan Xiongxin, and Cheng Yaojin. The entire book is filled with complex events and numerous characters, making it intricate and multifaceted. However, through Chu Renhuo's meticulous organization, the book maintains a clear narrative thread and skillful interweaving of plots. Although it may seem somewhat loose, it is never chaotic. Literary critic Huang Ren said, "The Romance of the Sui and Tang draws upon a rich array of sources, covering over a century of events from the Sui's conquest of Chen to Xuanzong's restoration, all in an orderly manner. It demonstrates great strength and is worthy of standing shoulder to shoulder with Romance of the Three Kingdoms."