Clarifying the basic facts, restoring history to its true form, and offering an in-depth portrait of the Great Song during an era of transformation: Wang Anshi. In the middle Northern Song period, Wang Anshi was one of the most controversial figures in Chinese history. Some denounced him as a traitor to the people, while others called him a sage. Darkness and brilliance intertwined, as did condemnation and praise. Nearly a thousand years later, how can we give Wang Anshi a fair assessment? Centered on Wang Anshi, this book portrays and analyzes the man himself while also introducing prominent figures and historical events of his time, offering a glimpse into the character and history of the Song dynasty.
