Great Song Three Wonders

Author: Guo Tianyin
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-06-01
Features: The term "Great Three of the Northern Song Dynasty" refers to three remarkable figures in Chinese history during the Northern Song period: Wang Anshi, a reformist prime minister and one of the "Eight Great Masters of the Tang and Song Dynasties"; Sima Guang, a conservative prime minister, historian, and chief compiler of Zizhi Tongjian; and Su Dongpo, a great poet and artist who achieved unparalleled literary fame despite his political frustrations. In 1066, Emperor Yingzong of Song passed away, and the 20-year-old Zhao Xu ascended the throne as Emperor Shenzong. Young and ambitious, Emperor Shenzong could not tolerate the internal and external troubles, as well as the chronic poverty and weakness of the Song Dynasty, and was determined to reform and strengthen the empire. With strong support from Emperor Shenzong, the reformist faction led by Wang Anshi introduced new policies, implementing bold reforms. Meanwhile, the conservative faction led by Sima Guang did everything in their power to obstruct and resist the reforms. Just as the Song Dynasty was gripped by intense debates between the reformist and conservative factions, the Liao and Western Xia states launched southward invasions, pressing their armies at the borders. The storm was brewing, and the winds were filling the tower—whether the actions would be deemed a success or failure would be judged by history. This book vividly portrays the political drama of that era.