Brian opens the report with a biographical introduction of historian Sima Qian, born in Shanxi province during the Han Dynasty. His legacy includes 130 scrolls of writing, separated into five books: Basic Annals, describing the lives of Chinese rulers of different dynasties and laying the foundation for the remaining books; Tables, listing important historical events; Treatises, containing records of various sectors of government and culture; House Chronicles, documenting nobles and notable figures; and Ordered Biographies, recording common people.
Brian writes that he respects Sima Qian, who, out of respect for his father’s dying wish, was castrated and created historical records. Dying is easy, finding security in what is in front of you is difficult. Sima once described himself as being below the position of a eunuch. Brian admires the strength of the willpower and endurance of such a legendary figure. Sima found joy in creating books out of bamboo, which he felled atop mountains. His books, which grew daily in number, brought him comfort.
The Tales of Pipi Lu – Reading Report
Conscription of Shiwu (First Half)
