Court and Jianghu: The Life of Fan Zhongyan, Part One: A Gathering Storm

Temple and Jianghu: The Biography of Fan Zhongyan follows numerous historical events from the Duangong era through the Huangyou era of the Northern Song. Through the connections among famous figures such as Fan Zhongyan, Yan Shu, Ouyang Xiu, Lü Yijian, Han Qi, and Fu Bi, and drawing on historical works including the History of Song, Zizhi Tongjian, and the Long Draft of the Zizhi Tongjian, it offers a unique perspective on more than sixty turbulent years under Emperors Zhenzong and Renzong of Song.

Part One: A Gathering Storm introduces the stories of major figures who lived alongside Fan Zhongyan, setting out the historical context of his time. It also recounts his early ambitions, his life dependent on others, his wish to be both a good minister and a good doctor, and his humble meals of chopped greens and porridge.