Collection of Zeng Guofan (Upper, Middle, and Lower) Essence of Chinese Classical Culture

Author: Zeng Guofan
Publisher:
Publish Date: 1999-01-01
Features: Zeng Guofan is one of the most prominent and controversial figures in modern Chinese history, with mixed evaluations both during and after his lifetime. Throughout his life, Zeng Guofan experienced the decline of China, and personally, he achieved significant accomplishments in early years by dedicating himself to scholarship and aspiring to be a sage. Later, as a military commander and administrator, he also achieved notable success. However, he left no written works behind for posterity. What truly survived are his "family letters" and "diaries." This book collects and organizes over 1,000 extant family letters of Zeng Guofan, arranged chronologically from the 20th year of Daoguang to the 10th year of Tongzhi, spanning three dynasties and 31 years. The letters are categorized into self-cultivation, family education, social conduct, financial management, military governance, and political administration, covering the main ideas of Zeng Guofan's life. Appendices include "Ice Mirror" and an abridged version of "The Golden Needle for Social Conduct." This enables readers to gain a comprehensive understanding of Zeng Guofan. The "Tianjin" (Incident) dealt a heavy blow to Zeng Guofan's spirit, and he passed away on March 12, 1872, at the age of 61 while serving as Viceroy of Liangjiang, as the ancient saying goes, "When a thousand people point fingers, even a healthy man dies."