11th century, China, Chinese, East Asia, historical figure, primary source, quotes, Song dynasty, stories
There are several anecdotes relating to the renowned Chinese poet Su Dongpo 苏東坡 (1036-1101), and jesters. Su wore a kind of hat which was named after him. During the Xining reign period (1068–1077) of Song Shenzong 宋神宗, some jesters acted out a skit in which they...
11th century, China, Chinese, East Asia, historical figure, primary source, quotes, Song dynasty, stories
During the Xining reign period (1068-77) of Emperor Shenzong 宋神宗 (r. 1067-85), Prime Minister Wang Anshi (1021-86) implemented his New Reform Laws. Wanting to make use of people’s talents, he sometimes bypassed the formal channels to appoint people who had not...
11th century, China, Chinese, East Asia, historical figure, primary source, quotes, Song dynasty, stories
A charming tale of a prominent jester’s landing himself in the bad books of a powerful minister but being saved from wrathful retribution by the emperor.Prime Minister Wang Anshi (1021-86) instituted a series of sweeping reforms although he later fell into...
