This book brings together forty-six essays by Mr. Huang Pumin interpreting the great figures who shaped history. Some of the essays were published in major newspapers and magazines at different times, while others are new works by the author. Each historical figure has a chapter of their own. For this collection, the essays have been arranged by theme into six sections: The Wisdom of the Ancient Sages, The Insight of Statesmen, The Many Faces of Rulers, Lessons from History, The Union and Separation of Talent and Temperament, and The Fates of Heroes. The book features familiar historical figures: ancient sages such as Laozi and Confucius; statesmen such as Han Xin and Zhuge Liang; emperors, from domineering rulers of the Spring and Autumn period to benevolent sovereigns; civil officials such as Deng Yu and Yang Hu; and military commanders such as Yue Fei and Geshu Han.
In interpreting historical figures, the author begins not only with what readers already know about them, but also takes particular care to reveal other sides that tend to be overlooked. For instance, in discussing the great Han Confucian Dong Zhongshu, the author does not focus on his role in establishing Confucianism as the orthodox doctrine. Instead, he examines his proposal of the "unity of Heaven and humanity," which was intended to use divine authority to limit imperial power, a notion that was pure fantasy in feudal society. Likewise, in discussing Yue Fei's death, the author cites not only the political struggle between those who favored war and those who favored peace, but also Yue Fei's impartiality and outspokenness; the fact that he commanded a powerful army and enjoyed great prestige, leading Emperor Gaozong to suspect him of harboring disloyal intentions; and the way autocratic, centralized rule stifled talent. These were all "accomplices" in Yue Fei's wrongful death.
In lively, accessible language, the author offers modern interpretations of these classic figures, sums up their successes and failures, and draws out the lessons they offer. This provides today's readers who are interested in history and fascinated by heroes with useful material and a way to explore the past. Reading this book can inspire more people to follow the course of history and the fates of the great figures who shaped it, and to understand and interpret historical figures from different perspectives and standpoints.
