Collection of Liu Yuxi with Annotations and Explanations -- Chinese Classical Literature Series (Complete Three Volumes)

Author: (Tang) Liu Yuxi
Publisher:
Publish Date: 1989-10-01
Features: Liu Yuxi (772–842 AD) studied under Liu Mengde, a renowned literary figure of the Tang Dynasty. He was from Luoyang (present-day Luoyang, Henan). His father's name was Xun. At the end of the Tianbao era, he fled from hardship and moved his family eastward. He once served as a counselor in the office of Wei Yuanfu, the military governor of Western Zhejiang. Liu Yuxi was born after his master had relocated, so he spent his childhood in the Jiangnan region. At a young age, Liu Yuxi already had a reputation as a writer. In 793 (the 9th year of the Zhenyuan era), at the age of 22, he passed the imperial examination and later also passed the elite selection exam. He was appointed as a copywriter in the Prince's Academy. Later, he became the chief clerk of Weinan. In 803 (the 19th year of the Zhenyuan era), he was promoted to the position of censor-in-chief. He began to associate with Wang Shuwen and Wei Zhiyi at this time. Emperor Dezong passed away in January 805 (the 21st year of the Zhenyuan era), and Li Song ascended the throne as Emperor Shunzong, changing the era to Yongzhen. At that time, Wei Zhiyi served as the prime minister, while Wang Qin and Wang Shuwen were scholars at the Hanlin Academy. Wang Shuwen held the position of assistant minister, and Liu Yuxi was appointed as the deputy director of the Bureau of Finance and Salt and Iron. During this period of administrative reform, eunuchs and regional military commanders colluded internally and externally, forcing Emperor Shunzong to abdicate and supporting Li Chun as Emperor Xuanzong. As a result, members of the reform faction were persecuted.