Zuo Zhuan

Author: Zuo Qiuming (Spring and Autumn Period)
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-01-01
Features: This book records some major historical events between the Zhou Dynasty and various vassal states from the first year of Duke Yin of Lu (722 BC) to the 27th year of Duke Ai of Lu (468 BC), covering a total of 255 years. The work reflects the actual conditions of the time with a certain progressive significance, and many of the historical records it contains have become an important part of traditional Chinese culture. The Zuo Zhuan narrates the history of the Spring and Autumn Period over more than 250 years, though only over 80,000 words in length, it is incredibly rich in content, and can even be read as a history of science and military affairs. In the early Spring and Autumn Period, measurements of the winter solstice were often inaccurate, but they gradually improved over time, showing the progressive advancement in observation. At the same time, people also knew about the 19-year 7-intercalary-month cycle, which was another form of progress. The Zuo Zhuan frequently cites the Military Annals, an ancient military text. For example, in the 12th year of Duke Dingxuan, Sun Shuao quoted the Military Annals saying, "The first to seize the heart of the enemy will win," and thus launched an offensive that led to a decisive victory over the Jin army. The Art of War, consisting of 13 chapters, may be seen as a summary of military texts from the Spring and Autumn Period. Precisely because of its immense value, Yue Lu Publishing House included it in the Classical Masterpieces Popular Library, which is indeed a meaningful endeavor.