History Lecture Series · Kangxi, the Unexpected Emperor

Author: Zhang Yan
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-09-01
Features: Experts review historical figures, authoritatively interpreting the mysteries. Historian Lucien Febvre of France once said, "Our task is to create history, because in a turbulent world, only history can help us face life without fear." This is even more true in today's fast-paced era, where more people hope to understand our past to better focus on our future. The purpose of the "Great History Lecture" series is precisely this—to present the past to readers in a concise manner and integrate history into rational thinking and humanistic reflection. Thus, history is no longer merely about the past; it also helps us pay attention to the future.
In his youth, he was not loved by his father-emperor but unexpectedly ascended the throne of emperor; diligent and studious, with lofty ambitions, he overthrew the powerful minister Albais at the age of fourteen and regained control of the court; he worked diligently, eased the people's burdens, suppressed rebellions, and conquered the six directions. This great emperor of the 17th and 18th centuries, known as an outstanding ruler, is often portrayed in movies and TV dramas as either too eccentric, too ordinary, too profound, or too worldly.
Who was Kangxi in reality? Professor Zhang Yan, the author of this book, uses detailed historical records, a fresh perspective, and a passionate pen to depict Kangxi's life, from his early ascension to the throne, his maturation and consolidation of power, to his diligent governance. He vividly recreates Kangxi's heroic spirit in the face of difficulties and crises; he affirms the grand achievements Kangxi established while also pointing out the negative effects he had on the development of Chinese history; and he vividly portrays the inner world of this great ruler. Thus, an arrogant, brilliant, confused, and tormented Kangxi comes to life. Among the emperors of Chinese history, this ethnic-minority ruler possessed extraordinary vitality, and his personality was relatively well-rounded.
—Yu Mi, The Shadow of a Dynasty
Experts review historical figures, authoritatively interpreting the mysteries. Historian Lucien Febvre of France once said, "Our task is to create history, because in a turbulent world, only history can help us face life without fear." This is even more true in today's fast-paced era, where more people hope to understand our past to better focus on our future. The purpose of the "Great History Lecture" series is precisely this—to present the past to readers in a concise manner and integrate history into rational thinking and humanistic reflection. Thus, history is no longer merely about the past; it also helps us pay attention to the future.
In his youth, he was not loved by his father-emperor but unexpectedly ascended the throne of emperor; diligent and studious, with lofty ambitions, he overthrew the powerful minister Albais at the age of fourteen and regained control of the court; he worked diligently, eased the people's burdens, suppressed rebellions, and conquered the six directions. This great emperor of the 17th and 18th centuries, known as an outstanding ruler, is often portrayed in movies and TV dramas as either too eccentric, too ordinary, too profound, or too worldly.
Who was Kangxi in reality? Professor Zhang Yan, the author of this book, uses detailed historical records, a fresh perspective, and a passionate pen to depict Kangxi's life, from his early ascension to the throne, his maturation and consolidation of power, to his diligent governance. He vividly recreates Kangxi's heroic spirit in the face of difficulties and crises; he affirms the grand achievements Kangxi established while also pointing out the negative effects he had on the development of Chinese history; and he vividly portrays the inner world of this great ruler. Thus, an arrogant, brilliant, confused, and tormented Kangxi comes to life. Among the emperors of Chinese history, this ethnic-minority ruler possessed extraordinary vitality, and his personality was relatively well-rounded.
—Yu Mi, The Shadow of a Dynasty