The Xue Family Generals' Campaign to Pacify the West is a historical novel by the Ming writer Zhong Xing. Centered on the family of Xue Rengui during the Tang dynasty, it weaves in stories of Tang emperors and generals, imperial consorts, and foreign enemies.
The novel begins during the reign of Emperor Taizong of Tang and spans the reigns of Gaozong, the Zhou dynasty under Wu Zetian, Zhongzong, Ruizong, and Xuanzong. It follows the heroic deeds of the Xue family generals, including Xue Rengui, Xue Dingshan, and Xue Jinlian, and features campaigns to pacify the west, political scheming at court, and rivalries in the imperial harem.
Blending historical fact with fiction, the novel recounts three generations of the Xue family serving their country with loyalty and courage, while also incorporating major historical events such as Wu Zetian's seizure of the throne, Yang Guifei's rise to favor, and An Lushan's rebellion. It has an expansive scope and a large cast of characters.
Its language continues the classical tradition of historical fiction. With a winding plot and a wealth of mythic and romantic imagination, including fantastic episodes such as journeys through the underworld and magical duels, it makes for a more legendary and entertaining story.
