In the Romance of the Three Kingdoms, Guan Yu is often portrayed as a martial saint, while Zhang Fei is often described as a reckless man. However, this may not be the case in history. Cao Cao, as a generation of heroes, has no doubt about his ability to recognize people. When Liu Bei took refuge in Cao Cao, Cao Cao gave Zhang Fei the position of lieutenant general, but did not reuse Guan Yu. Does this mean that Cao Cao saw some of Zhang Fei's qualities that surpassed Guan Yu? Is Zhang Fei really better than Guan Yu in terms of military talent, conduct and political vision? What is the deep meaning behind Cao Cao's decision?
Cao Cao's discernment: Zhang Fei was awarded the Zhonglang general, and Guan Yu was unemployed
In the first year of Jian'an (196), Liu Bei was attacked by Lü Bu, lost Xuzhou, and was forced to take refuge in Cao Cao. In this year, Cao Cao had just welcomed Emperor Xian of the Han Dynasty to the capital of Xu and established a nominal central power. In the face of the sudden Liu Bei, Cao Cao valued both his talent and his ambition.
When Liu Bei took Guan Yu and Zhang Fei to Cao Cao, the situation of the three of them could be described as embarrassing. Although Liu Bei is a relative of the Han family, he is already displaced at this time, and his soldiers are outnumbered. Cao Cao was well aware of Liu Bei's identity and ability, and in order to encircle this potential opponent, he gave Liu Bei the titles of Yuzhou Mu and General Zuo. This arrangement seemed generous, but in fact it was a false position, because most of Yuzhou was not under Cao Cao's actual control at the time.
However, Cao Cao treated Liu Bei's two right-hand men differently. He appointed Zhang Fei as a lieutenant general, a de facto military position in charge of part of the military power. In contrast, Guan Yu did not receive any position. This arrangement is quite intriguing, and it seems that Cao Cao values Zhang Fei more than Guan Yu.
Although General Zhonglang was not the highest-ranking general, he was already a fairly important position in the military system at the end of the Han Dynasty. It is halfway between a general and a lieutenant, and has the power to command troops independently. Cao Cao gave Zhang Fei this position, which is obviously an affirmation and trust in his ability.
So, why did Cao Cao make such a choice? We might as well analyze it from several aspects:
First of all, Zhang Fei's personality traits may be more in line with Cao Cao's employment standards. Although Zhang Fei was often portrayed as reckless and rude by later generations, in actual historical records, he showed a lot of wisdom and strategy. For example, when he later conquered Yizhou, Zhang Fei treated the general Yan Yan well, showing superb political wisdom. This kind of flexibility may be more appreciated by Cao Cao.
Second, Zhang Fei's military talent may be superior to Guan Yu in some aspects. Although Guan Yu's martial arts and bravery were widely known, Zhang Fei was probably better at commanding the army. In later battles, Zhang Fei showed excellent command skills many times, such as defeating the famous general Zhang He of the Cao army in the Battle of Baishui Pass. This kind of comprehensive military capability may be more in line with Cao Cao's requirements for generals.
Moreover, Cao Cao may have taken a fancy to Zhang Fei's loyalty. Although Zhang Fei was loyal to Liu Bei, his personality was relatively straightforward and did not have strong individualistic tendencies like Guan Yu. In later history, we see that Guan Yu made many decisions that were not conducive to the overall situation due to his personal concept of honor and disgrace, while Zhang Fei rarely had such problems.
Finally, from a strategic point of view, Cao Cao may have been trying to divide Liu Bei's forces. By treating Zhang Fei favorably and snubbing Guan Yu, Cao Cao may have wanted to create contradictions in Liu Bei's camp and weaken their cohesion. This divide-and-conquer strategy is exactly what Cao Cao is used to.
Comparison of military talents
The military prowess of Zhang Fei and Guan Yu has been the focus of controversy in later generations. Although Guan Yu is more famous for legendary stories such as "going to the meeting with a single sword" and "passing five levels and killing six generals", a closer look at history will show that Zhang Fei's military achievements may not be inferior to Guan Yu, and even better in some aspects.
First, let's review Zhang Fei's military achievements. In the Battle of Changbanpo, Zhang Fei broke off with 20 horses, scared off tens of thousands of Cao troops and protected the safety of Liu Bei's rear. This feat not only shows Zhang Fei's bravery, but also reflects his excellent use of psychological tactics. He used his prestige and momentum to successfully deter the enemy army and avoid a vicious battle that could lead to the destruction of Liu Bei's army.
In addition, Zhang Fei's performance in attacking Yizhou is also commendable. When attacking the city, Zhang Fei adopted the tactic of attacking the east and attacking the west, first feinting in other directions, and then suddenly concentrating his forces to attack the weakest west gate, conquering the city in one fell swoop. This flexible and changeable tactical use shows that Zhang Fei is not only brave and strategic, but also good at responding to opportunities.
Let's look at Guan Yu's outstanding exploits. Guan Yu's most famous achievements are Huarong Dao's beheading of Yan Liang, Bishui Guan's beheading of Wen Chou, and the flooding of the Seventh Army in the Battle of Xiangfan and the capture of the ban. These achievements undoubtedly demonstrate Guan Yu's outstanding personal martial arts and commanding talents. Especially in the battle of Xiangfan, Guan Yu took advantage of the terrain and skillfully used water attacks to defeat the main force of Cao's army in one fell swoop, showing superb strategic vision.
However, if we carefully compare the military achievements of the two, we will find that Zhang Fei may have been better in terms of strategic vision. Taking the conquest of Yizhou as an example, when Zhang Fei attacked Ba County, he encountered the stubborn resistance of the veteran Yan Yan. After defeating and capturing Yan Yan, Zhang Fei did not dispose of the enemy general out of a momentary anger, but chose to release and treat Yan Yan with courtesy. This decision not only won Yan Yan's allegiance, but also laid a good foundation for the subsequent conquest of Yizhou. This practice of combining military action with political strategy shows Zhang Fei's superb strategic wisdom.
In contrast, Guan Yu's decision-making at certain critical moments is less thoughtful. For example, in the later stages of the Battle of Xiangfan, Guan Yu was complacent and failed to prevent Sun Quan's backstab in time, which eventually led to the loss of Jingzhou and his own defeat. This incident exposed Guan Yu's inadequacy in overall concept and political sensitivity.
In terms of tactical use, Zhang Fei also showed a unique talent. In the process of conquering Yizhou, Zhang Fei repeatedly adopted the tactics of attacking the east and attacking the west, combining the virtual and the real, and successfully conquered a number of fortified cities. This kind of flexible tactical thinking enabled Zhang Fei to achieve significant results at a relatively small cost.
Although Guan Yu also had excellent tactical use, such as the combination of fire and attack in the Battle of Red Cliffs, he relied more on personal martial arts and frontal attack. Although this style is magnificent, it may not be flexible in the face of complex battles.
In addition, in terms of employing people, Zhang Fei also seems to be more far-sighted than Guan Yu. Zhang Fei is good at discovering and using talents, for example, when he was conquering Yizhou, he reused many generals and effectively expanded his strength. Guan Yu, on the other hand, was too conceited and often ignored the advice of his subordinates, such as before the loss of Jingzhou, he did not listen to the dissuasion of the generals and insisted on pursuing Cao Cao north.
Wisdom in dealing with the world
In addition to military talents, Zhang Fei and Guan Yu also showed very different styles in dealing with people. This difference not only affected their personal development, but also had a profound impact on the fate of the entire Shu Han regime. By comparing the performance of the two in key events, we can see more clearly Zhang Fei's advantages in the wisdom of life.
Zhang Feiyi's interpretation of Yan Yan can be called a model of his wisdom in life. In the process of conquering Yizhou, Zhang Fei encountered the stubborn resistance of Bajun Taishou Yanyan. After a fierce battle between the two sides, Yan Yan was captured. According to the practice at that time, Zhang Fei could have executed this stubborn enemy general. However, Zhang Fei chose an unexpected path.
According to the records of the "Chronicles of the Three Kingdoms", Zhang Fei not only did not punish Yan Yan, but instead set up a banquet to entertain him and personally poured wine for him. In the face of Zhang Fei's courtesy, Yan Yan did not immediately express his submission, but bluntly expressed his position: "I am a loyal minister of the Han family, and I don't want to be captured by thieves today." If you want to kill, you can kill, why be polite! In the face of such a tough attitude, Zhang Fei was not angry, but laughed and said: "I heard that Gong Nai is a loyal minister of the Han family, and when I saw it today, it really deserved its reputation." If the prince is willing to surrender, I will recommend the prince to the lord. "
This move demonstrated Zhang Fei's superb political wisdom. Not only did he not miss out on talent because of his momentary will, but he won Yan Yan's allegiance through tolerance and respect. Yan Yan later became an important general of Shu Han and made important contributions to Liu Bei's Yizhou rule. This method of turning enemies into friends not only reflects Zhang Fei's broad-mindedness, but also shows his deep understanding of human nature and superb political skills.
In contrast, Guan Yu tends to be stubborn when dealing with interpersonal relationships. The most typical example is Guan Yu's performance in the Battle of Jingzhou. At that time, although his subordinates repeatedly advised Guan Yu to beware of Eastern Wu, Guan Yu ignored these warnings because of his conceit. Not only did he not strengthen his ties with Eastern Wu, but he offended Sun Quan many times, such as Jiangling and other places that forcibly occupied Sun Quan. This arrogant attitude eventually led to the betrayal of Eastern Wu, which was directly related to the loss of Jingzhou.
Guan Yu's stubbornness is not only reflected in his external relations, but also often shows an arrogant attitude towards his subordinates. For example, in the Battle of Xiangfan, Guan Yu repeatedly ignored the advice of his subordinates and insisted on his own judgment. This kind of arbitrary style not only affected the morale of the armed forces, but also led to strategic mistakes.
On the other hand, Zhang Fei was more amiable when he treated his subordinates. In the process of conquering Yizhou, Zhang Fei was good at listening to the opinions of his subordinates and was willing to promote talented soldiers. This approachable style made Zhang Fei's troops highly motivated and combative.
In addition, Zhang Fei also showed great diplomatic skill in dealing with other forces. After Liu Bei entered Shu, Zhang Fei was sent to Brazil to guard the town. In the process of governance, Zhang Fei not only appeased the local Han people, but also successfully encircled the local ethnic minorities. This balanced approach laid a solid foundation for Shu Han's rule in the Bashu region.
Although Guan Yu has outstanding performance in personal martial arts and military talents, he is somewhat lacking in dealing with people. Although his uprightness won the respect of some, he often offended others by being too stubborn. For example, during Cao Cao's capture of Guan Yu, although Guan Yu accepted Cao Cao's favor, he always maintained an arrogant attitude, which demonstrated his loyalty, but also laid hidden dangers for the future.
Loyalty to Liu Bei
In the vicissitudes of the Three Kingdoms period, Zhang Fei and Guan Yu's loyalty to Liu Bei has always been a striking topic. As Liu Bei's sworn brothers, the two were both known for their loyalty, but the way and degree of loyalty they showed were different. By comparing the performance of the two in key historical events, we can understand their loyalty to Liu Bei more deeply.
First, let's review Zhang Fei's loyalty to Liu Bei. In the Battle of Changbanpo, Zhang Fei's performance was a model of loyalty. At that time, Cao Cao's army was pressing, Liu Bei's army was defeated, and Zhang Fei took the initiative to ask for a break. He led twenty cavalry, stood at the head of the Changsaka Bridge, and shouted: "I am Zhang Yide, I can come to die!" This feat not only shocked Cao's army and bought Liu Bei precious time to retreat, but also reflected Zhang Fei's determination to protect Liu Bei at the cost of his life.
Zhang Fei's loyalty is not only reflected on the battlefield, but also vividly in politics. When Liu Bei entered Shu, Zhang Fei was sent to Brazil to guard the town. During this period, Zhang Fei not only quelled the local rebellion, but also successfully encircled the local ethnic minorities, laying a solid foundation for Liu Bei's rule in Shu. This kind of obscure dedication reflects Zhang Fei's wholehearted devotion to Liu Bei's career.
Let's look at Guan Yu's loyalty performance. Guan Yu's most famous loyal deeds are none other than "passing five levels and killing six generals". According to the record of "Romance of the Three Kingdoms", although Guan Yu was captured by Cao Cao, although he was treated favorably, he always cared about Liu Bei. After learning of Liu Bei's whereabouts, he resolutely bid farewell to Cao Cao, risked his life, crossed five levels, and finally reunited with Liu Bei. This deed has become an important part of Guan Yu's loyal image.
However, if we carefully compare the loyalty of the two, we will find that Zhang Fei's loyalty seems to be more stable and long-lasting. Taking the conquest of Yizhou as an example, when Liu Bei decided to attack Yizhou, Zhang Fei did not hesitate to support and actively participate. When attacking the city, Zhang Fei adopted the tactics of attacking the east and the west, and successfully conquered this fortified city. This attitude of actively cooperating with Liu Bei's decision-making reflects Zhang Fei's absolute trust and support for Liu Bei.
In contrast, Guan Yu's decision-making at some critical moments appears to be somewhat self-egoistic. For example, in the Battle of Jingzhou, Guan Yu ignored Liu Bei's strategic intentions many times because of personal honor and disgrace. Ignoring Liu Bei's alliance with Sun Quan, he forcibly occupied Sun Quan's Jiangling and other places, which eventually led to the betrayal of Eastern Wu. Although this behavior is out of loyalty to Liu Bei, it has brought huge losses to Liu Bei's career because of the lack of overall considerations.
When dealing with the tasks assigned by Liu Bei, Zhang Fei also showed higher execution. When Liu Bei sent Zhang Fei to defend Brazil, Zhang Fei not only completed the military task of quelling the rebellion, but also made great contributions to politics, economy, culture and other aspects. He actively promoted benevolent government and vigorously developed agricultural production, which quickly stabilized Brazil and became an important rear base of Shu Han. This kind of comprehensive and meticulous execution reflects Zhang Fei's deep understanding and dedication to Liu Bei's career.
Although Guan Yu also completed the task assigned to him by Liu Bei to guard Jingzhou, his style of action often brought unexpected consequences. For example, in the attack on Fancheng, although Guan Yu achieved a major victory, he was too focused on pursuing Cao Cao and ignored the threat of Eastern Wu, which eventually led to the loss of Jingzhou. Although this behavior was motivated by loyalty to Liu Bei, it brought a fatal blow to Liu Bei's career because of the lack of overall considerations.
In addition, in his attitude towards Liu Bei, Zhang Fei seems to be more respectful and humble. Even after making great achievements, Zhang Fei still maintained absolute obedience to Liu Bei. For example, after conquest of Yizhou, Zhang Fei volunteered to ask Ying to defend remote Brazil instead of asking for a more prominent position. This selfless attitude reflects Zhang Fei's deep affection and loyalty to Liu Bei.
In contrast, although Guan Yu was also loyal to Liu Bei, his actions often revealed a kind of conceit and arrogance. For example, in the Battle of Jingzhou, Guan Yu repeatedly made his own decisions, ignoring Liu Bei's overall strategy. Although this behavior is motivated by loyalty to Liu Bei, it brings unnecessary risks to Liu Bei's career because of overconfidence.
Historical Evaluation and Impact
As representative figures of the Three Kingdoms period, Zhang Fei and Guan Yu have always been a hot topic of research and discussion in later generations. The images and deeds of the two have not only left a strong mark in the official history, but also have been widely disseminated and interpreted in folk literature and artistic works. By comparing the evaluation and influence of the two men in history, we can understand their place and significance in Chinese culture more deeply.
In terms of the evaluation of the official history, Zhang Fei and Guan Yu have both received high evaluations. The evaluation of Zhang Fei in "Romance of the Three Kingdoms" is: "Although Fei is mighty, he can undertake the system, fulfill benevolence and righteousness, and be a brother." This evaluation not only affirmed Zhang Fei's bravery, but also praised his benevolence and loyalty to his brothers. At the same time, the history books also record Zhang Fei's political achievements in governing Brazil, saying that he "prospered and eliminated harm, and was quite good in governance", showing that Zhang Fei was not only a brave general, but also a talented ruler.
Guan Yu's evaluation in the official history is also very high. "Romance of the Three Kingdoms" praised Guan Yu for "righteousness and martyrdom, famous in the universe", highlighting Guan Yu's loyal character. In particular, Guan Yu's deeds of "passing five passes and killing six generals" are regarded as a model of loyalty and righteousness, and have had a far-reaching impact on later generations.
However, there are also some differences between the two in their historical evaluations. The image of Guan Yu was gradually deified in later generations, and was even named "Guan Sheng Emperor", becoming an important deity of Chinese folk beliefs. This phenomenon to a certain extent obscures Guan Yu's true appearance as a historical figure. In contrast, although Zhang Fei's image is also beautified, it retains more human characteristics, so that future generations can evaluate his merits and demerits more objectively.
In folk literature and works of art, the images of Zhang Fei and Guan Yu have been richly shaped. Taking "Romance of the Three Kingdoms" as an example, Zhang Fei was portrayed as a brave and upright, rough and fine image. The plot in which he shouted at Changban Slope to shake off Cao Jun has become a classic in Chinese literature. This image not only reflects Zhang Fei's bravery, but also shows his loyalty to Liu Bei.
Guan Yu's image in "Romance of the Three Kingdoms" is even taller, and he is portrayed as the embodiment of "loyalty". In particular, the plot of Guan Yu's farewell to Cao Cao and his brother's search for thousands of miles has become a representative of the spirit of loyalty and righteousness. However, this overly idealistic image has also sparked some controversy, with some scholars arguing that this portrayal obscures Guan Yu's true face as a historical figure.
In terms of artistic expression, Zhang Fei and Guan Yu are also different. Often depicted as a red-faced, long-bearded warrior armed with a green dragon glaive, Guan Yu has become an important symbol in traditional Chinese culture. In contrast, Zhang Fei's artistic image, although also distinct (usually with a black face and ringed eyes, holding a Zhangba snake spear), is slightly inferior to Guan Yu in popularity and symbolism.
The historical influence of the two is also different. Guan Yu was widely worshipped in later generations because of his image of loyalty and righteousness, not only becoming the ancestor of the martial arts world, but also being worshipped as the god of wealth by merchants. This wide influence has made Guan Yu one of the most iconic figures in Chinese culture. In contrast, Zhang Fei's influence, although also great, was mainly confined to the military and literary fields.
In modern society, the images of Zhang Fei and Guan Yu still have important cultural significance. Guan Yu's spirit of loyalty continues to be widely celebrated and has become an important material for moral education. The image of Zhang Fei is more used to symbolize courage and determination, and has a great influence in the military and management fields.
It is worth noting that with the deepening of historical research, the evaluation of Zhang Fei and Guan Yu by the academic community is also constantly adjusted. Some scholars have begun to pay attention to the historical truth behind the figures of the two men, trying to restore their true appearance as historical figures. For example, some scholars have pointed out that Zhang Fei's talent for governance may have been underestimated, while Guan Yu's mistakes in military decision-making may have been overlooked. This more objective approach to research helps us to understand these two historical figures more comprehensively.
In the field of education, the deeds of Zhang Fei and Guan Yu are also widely used as teaching materials. Guan Yu's spirit of loyalty is often used to teach students to be faithful to their beliefs, and Zhang Fei's performance at Nagasakapo is used to illustrate the importance of courage. This educational influence is not limited to China, but also in other countries and regions in East Asia, such as Japan and Korea, and the stories of Zhang Fei and Guan Yu are also widely known, becoming an important window into Chinese culture.
In general, Zhang Fei and Guan Yu occupy an important place in Chinese history and culture as historical figures and cultural symbols. Their images and deeds have not only influenced the values of the Chinese, but also enriched China's cultural traditions. Although the two men differed in their historical evaluations and cultural influences, they together formed an indispensable part of traditional Chinese culture. With the development of the times, the evaluation and understanding of them has also deepened, and this continuous attention and discussion itself reflects their important position in Chinese culture.