Romance of the Three Kingdoms - [One of the Four Great Classical Novels of China]

Author: Luo Guanzhong
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-10-01
Features: Romance of the Three Kingdoms is adapted by Luo Guanzhong based on folk tales, storytelling, and traditional operas. Through vividly depicting the political, military, and diplomatic struggles among feudal ruling groups during the Three Kingdoms period, the author reveals the turmoil and darkness of society in the late Eastern Han Dynasty, condemns the cruelty of feudal rulers, and reflects the suffering of the people and their strong desire for a wise ruler and stability. The novel portrays numerous lifelike characters: the benevolent Liu Bei, the ruthless and cunning Cao Cao, the upright Guan Yu, the rough but refined Zhang Fei, and the Zhuge Liang with his silk hat and feather fan, as well as Zhou Yu and Sima Yi, who excelled in strategy. Their stories of wit and bravery have left a deep impression on people. This children's edition retains the original language style of "not overly profound yet not overly vulgar," while cutting out some superstition-laden and irrelevant content. It focuses on the rise and fall of Shu Han, with a clear structure, strong narrative, and engaging, lively, and concise storytelling, making it highly suitable for children. Romance of the Three Kingdoms is a long historical romance novel in China, an epic work depicting the politics, military, culture, and diplomacy of the Three Kingdoms period. In the late Eastern Han Dynasty, corrupt governance sparked the Yellow Turban Rebellion. Local warlords seized the opportunity to suppress the rebellion, forming multiple regional powers and entering a period of fierce competition. Amidst the clash of swords and flames, Liu Bei eventually rose to prominence, establishing Shu with the assistance of Zhuge Liang, Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, and Zhao Yun, forming a triangular alliance with Cao Wei and Sun Wu. After Liu Bei's death, Zhuge Liang governed Shu under Liu Shan, capturing Meng Huo seven times, leading six expeditions to Mount Qi, and dedicating his life to the cause until his death. Shortly after Zhuge Liang's passing, the state of Wei fell under the control of the Sima family, which later conquered both Shu and Wu, establishing Western Jin and unifying the Three Kingdoms.