Sun Tzu's Art of War (Illustrated Textbook)

Author: Sun Wu, written by Sun Wu, selected and edited by Zhao Ji
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2001-08-01
Features: This book provides translation and annotations on a per-chapter basis. The introductory remarks at the beginning of each chapter explain the central content, internal logical structure, and basic characteristics of the chapter. The original text is punctuated based on the "Eleven Commentaries on the Art of War" as the source. The annotations include word explanations and interpretations. The translation strives to be fluent and vivid while remaining faithful to the original text. Over fifty ancient battle cases are selected to help readers understand the mysteries of each chapter through practical applications.
The "Art of War" is known as the "Sunzi" and is commonly referred to as the "Art of War." It is one of the earliest and most famous military treatises in ancient China. Sunzi, named Wu, styled Changqing, was a native of Qi during the late Spring and Autumn period. His birth and death years are unknown, and he lived around the same time as Confucius (551-479 BC). His ancestors included the renowned military strategist Sima Rangju and the distinguished general Tian Shu. Sunzi gained recognition for his military strategies before King Helü of Wu, was appointed as a general, and served as an advisor to the king. He achieved significant military successes, defeating the powerful Chu state in the west and intimidating Qi and Jin in the north, thereby establishing Wu as a hegemon in the Spring and Autumn period.
The "Art of War" was likely compiled around 515 BC. The book consists of thirteen chapters, which are structured along the lines of strategy as the vertical axis and the general progression of warfare as the horizontal axis. It forms an organic whole while each chapter remains independent. The text is grand, profound, and innovative, with content that is extensive and profound. Since its inception, it has profoundly influenced the development of military thought in China and has been revered as the "Holy Canon of Military Studies." At the same time, the "Art of War" enjoys a high international reputation. It was introduced to foreign countries over a thousand years ago during the Tang Dynasty and has been translated into multiple languages, including English, Japanese, French, German, and Italian. It has attracted global attention and has become a shared treasure of humanity.
This book provides translation and annotations on a per-chapter basis. The introductory remarks at the beginning of each chapter explain the central content, internal logical structure, and basic characteristics of the chapter. The original text is punctuated based on the "Eleven Commentaries on the Art of War" as the source. The annotations include word explanations and interpretations. The translation strives to be fluent and vivid while remaining faithful to the original text. Over fifty ancient battle cases are selected to help readers understand the mysteries of each chapter through practical applications.