User:Chinesefamily

In the Chinese ancient times, and the early Qin and the two Han dynasties in particular, no line of demarcation was drawn between literature, philosophy and historiography, so the history of literature for these dynasties, if mentioned, generally involves some famous works of philosophy and historiography. Of the argumentative prose works of the early Qin dynasty scholars Zhuang Zi is of the highest value of literature. Now let us come to Zhuang Zi. Zhuang Zi, also known as Zhuang Zhou, was a native of Meng (present-day northeastern Shang Qiu City, Henan Province) in the Song State during the Warring States Period. He once took the post of a petty official at Qiyuan. Knowledgeable and far-sighted, he was a philosopher of great wisdom. Oppressed by a poverty-stricken life, he borrowed rice from the Marquis of Jianhe on his trip to the State of Wei and visited King Hui of Wei though still in rags. He thought little of fame and riches and looked down upon those with wealth and rank. He even declined the invitation of King Wei of Chu to be prime minister of the Chu State. In the chaotic society of the Warring States Period it was indeed no easy matter for him to keep his moral character and seek his spiritual freedom. Zhuang Zi is the piece of work, which crystallizes his wisdom.