New Biography of Historical Figures in the Records of the Grand Historian

Author: Zhang Yuchun
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-08-01
Features: In the fine collection of traditional Chinese culture, the Records of the Grand Historian stands unparalleled as an encyclopedia. It is a boundless source of thought, nurturing generations of people's growth. From ancient times to the present, countless renowned scholars across dynasties have read the Records of the Grand Historian, drawing nourishment from it. Figures like the Eight Great Masters of the Tang and Song dynasties, the masters of the Qian-Jia school, as well as modern luminaries such as Liang Qichao, Lu Xun, Guo Moruo, and Mao Dun—all have benefited from its wisdom. The Records of the Grand Historian records the diverse figures of ancient times, including the human (human ancestor) Huangdi, the sage-kings of the Xia, Shang, and Zhou dynasties, the philosophers of the pre-Qin (hundred schools) period, the exemplary teacher Confucius, the heroes of the Warring States period, the formidable emperors Qin Shi Huang and Han Wudi, the rebel hero Chen Sheng, as well as the outstanding figures of the Chu-Han contention—Xiang Yu, Liu Bang, Zhang Liang, Xiao He, and Han Xin. Their achievements and characters, their thoughts and spirits, serve as models and mirrors for reflection. This book selects sixty-one figures from the Records of the Grand Historian, divided into ten sections, interpreting their personalities and capabilities from a modern perspective—hence the name "New Biographies." It is available for appreciation and discussion. May readers savor life and gain enlightenment from it.