Essay Questions

Why was the "Three Kingdoms" period called that?

The "Three Kingdoms" period was named that because it was characterized by the division of China into three separate, rival kingdoms ruled by vicious warlords following the decline of the Eastern Han dynasty, which kept China together for generations. The three kingdoms were ruled by Wei, Shu, and Wu. They each ruled over different territories of China, each claiming legitimacy as the rightful ruler of the entire realm and each aiming to take control of more of the country. The so-called "Three Kingdoms" period, which lasted from 220 AD, when the Wei kingdom was officially established, to 280 AD, when the Jin dynasty unified China once again, was marked by constant political and military upheaval, as well as legendary figures who emerged from the period, like Liu Bei, Wu, Wei, and Shu Han.

Discuss the importance of strategic warfare in leadership as depicted in the novel.

Strategic warfare forms the backbone of the conflicts depicted in the novel. They are crucial determinants of leadership quality and the fate of each of the Three Kingdoms and the leaders who run them. The novel places a strong emphasis on the intellectual and strategic aspects of warfare, often glorifying leaders who exhibit wisdom, foresight, and cunning over those who simply use the strength of their numbers of brute force more generally. Zhuge Liang epitomizes this; he uses innovative strategies that often lead his forces to victory despite going up against stronger forces. For instance, he uses the empty fort strategy to surprise his army and lead them to victory.

This focus on strategy underscores the Confucian ideal of wise and virtuous leadership, where success in battle is achieved through moral righteousness, strategic thinking, and the ability to maintain harmony and order. The novel suggests that true leaders are those who can foresee the consequences of their actions, plan accordingly, and adapt to changing circumstances with wisdom and restraint. The portrayal of military strategy and tactics thus serves not only as thrilling narrative elements but also as reflections of the character's moral and ethical qualities, their ability to lead, and their rightful place in the cosmic order.