Shiji [New Edition]

Author: Sima Qian (Han)
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2001-09-01
Features: Records of the Grand Historian (Shiji) possesses a strong critical spirit and a distinct people-oriented nature. It boldly and profoundly exposes the darkness and corruption of the feudal ruling class. For instance, The Biographies of the Cruel Officials reflects the brutality of officials and officials, and The Biographies of Wei Ji and Wu An Marquis reveals the manipulation and mutual strife of the imperial relatives, both of which are written exceptionally well. Even the vices of feudal emperors, such as the rascal and cunning nature of Emperor Gaozu of Han and Emperor Wu of Han's penchant for grandiosity and superstition, are sharply criticized with an unflinching pen, a rare and commendable achievement. The book provides extensive and vivid descriptions of the activities of people from all social strata, particularly highlighting and praising the talents and merits of the lower classes. The Biography of Chen She is dedicated to the peasant uprising leader Chen She, highly praising his role as the "pioneer" in overthrowing the Qin Dynasty. The Biographies of Assassins celebrates the rebellious spirit of assassins like Jing Ke and Nie Zheng. The Biography of Wei Gongzi emphasizes the wisdom and chivalry of commoners like Hou Ying and Zhu He. The Biography of Merchants preserves extremely valuable ancient economic historical materials through the description of commercial activities. Politicians, military strategists, scholars, writers, wandering knights, entertainers, doctors, and diviners—all leave lifelike portraits in the book, forming a colorful and magnificent social life panorama. Coupled with the author's "truthful without embellishment, concealed without concealment" attitude toward the people and events he recorded, this is where Records of the Grand Historian surpasses all subsequent official histories in ideological value. Of course, Records of the Grand Historian also has its limitations. Sima Qian's historical perspective remained fundamentally idealistic, with some accounts inappropriately exaggerating the role of individuals in history. Superstitious and miraculous tales related to feudal were not entirely eliminated, and deterministic thoughts occasionally appeared.