Historical Stories - World Classics of Young Literature

Author: Sima Qian (Western Han Dynasty)
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-06-01
Features: Shiji (Records of the Grand Historian) is a monumental historical work in the form of biographies and chronicles in China. It documents important historical facts in politics, economy, military, and culture of the Chinese nation from the era of Yan and Huang to the reign of Emperor Wu of the Han Dynasty, spanning approximately three thousand years. It is a great work in the history of Chinese historiography and literature, embodying the spirit of "understanding the relationship between heaven and humanity, connecting the past and the present, and forming a unique perspective." Shiji is composed of "Basic Annals" (excluding the Annals of Qin, which records the lives and achievements of the highest rulers of various dynasties, totaling twelve chapters), "Hereditary Houses" (which records the lives and achievements of feudal kings and nobles, totaling thirty chapters), "Biographies" (which records the lives and deeds of important figures from all walks of life, totaling seventy chapters), "Treatises" (which records aspects such as economy, calendar, astronomy, and music of the time, totaling eight chapters), and "Tables" (which provide concise chronological tables of important events in different periods, totaling ten chapters), making up a total of one hundred and thirty chapters and over 520,000 words. Shiji is a treasure in the cultural treasury of the Chinese nation. Its praise of ancient sages and virtuous figures highlights the traditional spirit of selflessness and upholding justice while condemning evil. Its criticism of feudal rulers and exposure of social vices primarily demonstrate the moral integrity of detesting evil and distinguishing between right and wrong. Its admiration for the heroic deeds of patriotic figures promotes the invaluable spirit of patriotism. Its affirmation of the struggles of oppressed people against tyranny objectively expresses Sima Qian's correct historical perspective.