13th century, China, Chinese, East Asia, historical figure, primary source, quotes, Song dynasty, stories
During the Baoqing reign period (1225-55) of Emperor Song Lizong 宋理宗 (r. 1224-64), Prime Minister Shi Miyuan 史彌遠 (1164-1233) gave a banquet at his residence at which variety skits were performed. Such skits were a regular vehicle for jesters to draw attention to...
10th century, China, Chinese, East Asia, historical figure, primary source, quotes, Southern Tang, stories
A common target of the jester’s biting humour is royal and ministerial nepotism. The younger brothers of Emperor Yuanzong of the Southern Tang 南唐元宗 (r. 943-61) all had titles and favours bestowed on them while his ministers didn’t. The jester Li Jiaming...