Aisin Gioro Yuxian's Memoirs

Author: Aisin Gioro Yuxian
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-05-01
Features: From the last emperor of the Great Qing Dynasty to a puppet ruler of Manchukuo, a prisoner of the Soviet Union, and finally a commoner in the People's Republic of China, Puyi's life experiences are unique in history, unmatched by any emperor. During the period of Japanese imperialist rule in Manchukuo, during his days as a Soviet prisoner, and during his years of reform in the People's Republic of China, how did he spend his time? What was his mindset at the time? What actions did he take? These are not things that ordinary people can easily deduce. Only those who stayed close to him for a long time could grasp a sense of it. This book is read as authentic and believable, yet never dull or tedious. It weaves together stories about people, events, scenes, and objects related to Puyi, creating vivid and engaging narratives. The writing is delicate, the language simple and straightforward, yet humorous and witty. The book reveals some things unknown to outsiders, such as the mysterious death of Tan Yuling (Puyi's favorite concubine). Although the book does not give a direct answer, it is indeed related to Puyi. For example, there are rumors that Puyi engaged in same-sex relationships, and the book addresses this as well. This book can be read as leisure reading because it has some interesting points; it can also serve as a historical read, offering knowledge between the lines. From the book, one can also see that there is no such thing as a natural myth about feudal emperors.