Youth Version of the Chronicle of the Warring States

Author: Chen Yongchao, Guo Ping
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-08-01
Features: The Story of the Warring States narrates the history of over five hundred years during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, comprising 108 chapters, and was printed in the late Ming Dynasty. It is one of the most widely circulated and influential historical romance novels from the mid-Ming Dynasty in China, deeply loved by people. The current editors have presented this book in colloquial Chinese to facilitate reading and reference for young readers, allowing them to easily appreciate the charm of classic Chinese literature. The Story of the Warring States depicts over five hundred years of history, during which heroes emerged one after another, shining like stars. Centuries later, though many outstanding figures have appeared, the people and events of this period stand out in history as the most prominent and typical. They serve as the source of theories on success and failure for later generations and set the standards and role models for how people should act. Through rich and vivid storylines, the novel praises the benevolent and just rulers, the stern and magnanimous kings and princes, and the loyal, brave, and wise generals. It also admires the brave and resourceful heroes who act with righteousness and courage. In stark contrast to these positive characters, the novel also portrays the ignorant, cruel, and licentious emperors and feudal lords, as well as the greedy, treacherous, and cunning court sycophants. The author's attitude of exposing and condemning these characters is naturally integrated into the progression of the plot.