Zuo Zhuan (Chinese-English Parallel Edition)

Author: Li Shibiao (trans. by Li Shibiao, Hu Zhihui, Zheng Aifang (trans. by Hu Zhihui and Zheng Aifang))
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2000-07-01
Features: Zuo Zhuan, also known as Zuo Shi Chunqiu or Chunqiu Zuo Shi Zhuàn, is one of the "Thirteen Classics." It is traditionally attributed to Zuo Qiuming, a Lu state resident contemporary with Confucius. Modern scholars believe Zuo Zhuan was compiled from historical records of various states during the early Warring States period, and the author's name remains unknown. Zuo Zhuan is both a historical work and a literary masterpiece. Its literary merit alone is extraordinary. The text depicts numerous wars, records many dialogues and speeches, and portrays the intrigues within the ruling class. The wars depicted in Zuo Zhuan remain shocking and vivid even two millennia later, as if they occurred today. The diplomatic speeches are elegant and moving, while the palace intrigues are intricate and compelling. These are the essence of Zuo Zhuan, and thus this book includes a significant selection of texts from these three aspects. Major wars are almost all included. Prominent political figures of the time include Shuxiang of Jin, Yan Ying of Qi, Fu of Zheng, and Ji Zha of Wu. They were erudite, eloquent, and graceful. If compared to the "Four Gentlemen of the Warring States," we might call them the "Four Scholars of the Spring and Autumn Period." Therefore, this book includes many texts that depict their words and deeds. Previous selections have sometimes overlooked Lu state history, so this book slightly expands on it. For the sake of English translation, some texts overly involved in ritual systems have been excluded.