Duan Jingzhu – Water Margin

Duan Jingzhu is a fictional character in Water Margin, one of the Four Great Classical Novels of Chinese literature. Nicknamed “Golden Haired Hound”, he ranks 108th among the 108 Stars of Destiny and 72nd among the 72 Earthly Fiends. Wikipedia

TV show: All Men Are Brothers
Played by: Chen Lianghao


Duan Jingzhu (段景住) is one of the main characters in the Chinese classic novel “Water Margin” (《水浒传》), which was written by Shi Nai’an during the Ming Dynasty. He is also known as “Golden-eyed Tiger” (金眼彪), due to his fierce and powerful personality.

Duan Jingzhu was born in a wealthy family, but he was very rebellious from a young age. He became a bandit in the mountains, leading a group of followers and causing trouble for the government. However, he was a loyal and righteous leader, who often helped the poor and the weak. He was also skilled in martial arts, especially in the use of the spear.

In the novel, Duan Jingzhu is first introduced as a subordinate of Liangshan Marsh (梁山泊), a group of outlaws who rebelled against the corrupt government during the Song Dynasty. Duan is described as a tall and sturdy man, with a fierce-looking face and golden eyes. He is also very intelligent, often coming up with clever strategies to defeat their enemies.

Duan Jingzhu’s most memorable moment in the novel is his fight with Yang Zhi (杨志), a skilled warrior who was sent by the government to capture the outlaws. The two engage in a fierce battle, with Duan using his spear and Yang using his sword. Although Duan is initially at a disadvantage, he manages to turn the tables by using a clever strategy, and ultimately kills Yang in a brutal and bloody fashion.

Despite his fierce and violent nature, Duan Jingzhu is also shown to have a softer side. He falls in love with Yan Poxi (燕婆婆), a beautiful and kind-hearted woman who is also a member of Liangshan Marsh. Yan Poxi initially rejects Duan’s advances, but eventually falls in love with him as well. Their relationship is one of the few romantic subplots in the novel, and it provides a rare glimpse into Duan’s more gentle side.

Duan Jingzhu is one of the most complex and multi-dimensional characters in “Water Margin”. He is a fierce warrior and a loyal friend, but he is also violent and unpredictable. His relationship with Yan Poxi shows that he is capable of love and tenderness, but his brutal killing of Yang Zhi shows that he is not above using any means necessary to achieve his goals. In many ways, Duan Jingzhu embodies the themes of the novel, which explores the tension between loyalty and rebellion, justice and violence, and the struggle for survival in a corrupt and unjust society.

In conclusion, Duan Jingzhu is a fascinating character in “Water Margin”, who embodies many of the novel’s themes and contradictions. He is a fierce warrior, a loyal friend, and a violent rebel, who is both feared and admired by his followers and his enemies. His love for Yan Poxi provides a rare glimpse into his softer side, but his brutal killing of Yang Zhi shows that he is not above using any means necessary to achieve his goals. Duan Jingzhu is a complex and multi-dimensional character who continues to captivate readers and audiences to this day.

Shi Qian – Water Margin

时迁 (Shi Qian) is a character from the Chinese classic novel “Water Margin,” also known as “Outlaws of the Marsh” or “All Men Are Brothers.” He is a minor character in the story but still plays an important role in some of the events.

Shi Qian is one of the 108 outlaws who band together at Liangshan Marsh to form a rebel force against the corrupt government officials during the Song Dynasty. He is originally from Zhuozhou and works as a constable before joining the outlaws.

In the novel, Shi Qian is described as a brave and loyal man who is well-versed in martial arts. He is also known for his skills in archery and horse riding. Shi Qian is said to have a scar on his forehead, which he got during a fight with bandits. This scar is a distinguishing feature that makes him easily recognizable.

Shi Qian’s story in the novel is not as fleshed out as some of the other characters, but he does have a few notable moments. One of the most memorable scenes involving Shi Qian is when he saves the life of one of his fellow outlaws, Zhang Qing. Zhang Qing is captured by the enemy and is about to be executed, but Shi Qian arrives just in time to rescue him.

Another significant moment for Shi Qian is when he takes part in a battle against the imperial army. During the battle, Shi Qian fights bravely and kills several enemy soldiers. However, he is eventually captured and taken prisoner.

Despite being a minor character, Shi Qian’s loyalty and bravery make him a beloved figure among readers of “Water Margin.” He is often seen as a symbol of the common people’s resistance against oppression and tyranny.

In conclusion, Shi Qian is a minor character in “Water Margin,” but he is still an important part of the story. He is a brave and loyal man who fights for justice and the common people. Although his story is not as well-known as some of the other characters in the novel, his actions demonstrate the values that the outlaws of Liangshan Marsh stand for.

Bai Sheng – Water Margin

Bai Sheng is a fictional character in Water Margin, one of the Four Great Classical Novels in Chinese literature. Nicknamed “Daylight Rat”, he ranks 106th among the 108 Stars of Destiny and 70th among the 72 Earthly Fiends. Wikipedia
Pinyin: Bái Shèng
Simplified Chinese: 白胜


Bai Sheng (白胜) is a character in the Chinese classic novel “Water Margin” (《水浒传》), which was written by Shi Nai’an during the Ming Dynasty. He is also known as “White Stripe in the Waves” (波中白條), due to his skill in swimming and his white hair.

Bai Sheng was born into a poor family, and he worked as a ferryman on the Yangtze River. He was an expert swimmer and a skilled fighter, using a pair of hooks as his weapon of choice. Bai was also known for his loyalty and his love for justice, often helping the poor and the weak.

In the novel, Bai Sheng is first introduced as a member of Liangshan Marsh (梁山泊), a group of outlaws who rebelled against the corrupt government during the Song Dynasty. Bai is described as a tall and muscular man, with a white stripe in his hair and a pair of gleaming hooks. He is also very brave and loyal, often risking his life to protect his fellow outlaws.

Bai Sheng’s most memorable moment in the novel is his fight with Zhu Wu (朱武), a powerful warrior who was sent by the government to capture the outlaws. The two engage in a fierce battle, with Bai using his hooks and Zhu using his broadsword. Although Bai is initially at a disadvantage, he manages to turn the tables by using his swimming skills to evade Zhu’s attacks and strike him from unexpected angles. In the end, Bai emerges victorious, and Zhu is forced to flee in defeat.

Despite his skills as a fighter, Bai Sheng is also shown to have a gentle and compassionate side. He falls in love with Dai Zong (戴宗), a beautiful and kind-hearted woman who is also a member of Liangshan Marsh. Their love story is one of the few romantic subplots in the novel, and it provides a rare glimpse into Bai’s more tender side.

Bai Sheng is one of the most popular characters in “Water Margin”, thanks to his combination of bravery, loyalty, and compassion. He is a skilled fighter who is not afraid to risk his life for his friends, but he is also a kind and gentle soul who cares deeply for the people around him. His love story with Dai Zong is a testament to his emotional depth and his ability to feel deeply.

In conclusion, Bai Sheng is a beloved character in “Water Margin”, who embodies many of the novel’s themes and values. He is a brave fighter and a loyal friend, but he is also a compassionate and tender soul, who cares deeply for the people around him. His love story with Dai Zong is a testament to his emotional depth and his ability to feel deeply. Bai Sheng is a character who continues to captivate readers and audiences to this day.

Yu Baosi – Water Margin

Yu Baosi is a fictional character in Water Margin, one of the Four Great Classical Novels of Chinese literature. Nicknamed “God of the Dangerous Road”, he ranks 105th among the 108 Stars of Destiny and 69th among the 72 Earthly Fiends. Wikipedia

Nickname: “God of the Dangerous Road”; 險道神


Yu Baosi (郁保四) is a character in the Chinese classic novel “Water Margin” (《水浒传》) written by Shi Nai’an during the Ming Dynasty. He is also known as “Redbeard” (紅鬍子), due to his distinctive facial hair.

Yu Baosi was a skilled archer and a member of the outlaw band of Liangshan Marsh (梁山泊), a group of rebels who fought against the corrupt government during the Song Dynasty. He was a loyal and brave fighter, who was always willing to risk his life for his fellow outlaws.

In the novel, Yu Baosi is introduced as one of the leaders of the band, who commands a group of archers. He is described as a tall and muscular man with a fiery temper and a thick red beard. Yu is known for his archery skills, which he uses to deadly effect in battle. He is also a formidable fighter, using a pair of broadswords as his weapons of choice.

One of Yu Baosi’s most memorable moments in the novel is his fight with Zhang Qing (張清), a powerful warrior who was sent by the government to capture the outlaws. The two engage in a fierce battle, with Yu using his archery skills and Zhang using his spear. Although Yu is initially at a disadvantage, he manages to turn the tables by using his swords to deflect Zhang’s attacks and strike back with deadly precision. In the end, Yu emerges victorious, and Zhang is forced to flee in defeat.

Despite his fiery temper and his aggressive demeanor, Yu Baosi is also shown to have a compassionate side. He is deeply loyal to his fellow outlaws and is always willing to put himself in harm’s way to protect them. He is also a devoted husband and father, who cares deeply for his family.

Yu Baosi is one of the more complex characters in “Water Margin”, thanks to his combination of aggression and compassion. He is a fierce fighter who is not afraid to risk his life for his friends, but he is also a devoted family man who cares deeply for the people around him. His character provides a glimpse into the complicated nature of the outlaws of Liangshan Marsh, who are both heroes and criminals at the same time.

In conclusion, Yu Baosi is a memorable character in “Water Margin”, who embodies many of the novel’s themes and values. He is a skilled fighter and a loyal friend, but he is also a compassionate and devoted family man, who cares deeply for the people around him. His character provides a glimpse into the complicated nature of the outlaws of Liangshan Marsh, who are both heroes and criminals at the same time. Yu Baosi is a character who continues to captivate readers and audiences to this day.

Wang Dingliu – Water Margin

Wang Dingliu is a fictional character in Water Margin, one of the Four Great Classical Novels in Chinese literature. Nicknamed “Living Goddess of Lightning”, he ranks 104th among the 108 Stars of Destiny and 68th among the 72 Earthly Fiends. Wikipedia


Wang Dingliu (王定六) is a character from the classic Chinese novel “Water Margin” (《水浒传》) written by Shi Nai’an during the Ming Dynasty. He is one of the outlaws of Liangshan Marsh (梁山泊), a group of rebels who fight against the corrupt government during the Song Dynasty. Wang Dingliu is a skilled martial artist and a loyal friend, who uses his skills to protect his fellow outlaws.

Wang Dingliu is described as a tall and strong man with a square face and thick eyebrows. He is an expert in the martial arts of the Shaolin Temple, and he uses his skills to great effect in battles against the government forces. He is also a loyal friend, who is always willing to put himself in harm’s way to protect his fellow outlaws.

One of Wang Dingliu’s most memorable moments in the novel is his fight with Li Kui (李逵), another outlaw from Liangshan Marsh. Li Kui is known for his incredible strength, but Wang Dingliu manages to defeat him in battle using his superior martial arts skills. This fight showcases Wang Dingliu’s incredible fighting ability, as well as his loyalty to his fellow outlaws.

Wang Dingliu’s loyalty to his friends is further demonstrated in his interactions with other outlaws from Liangshan Marsh. He is known to be a dependable and trustworthy ally, who is always willing to lend a hand when his friends are in need. He is also a man of principle, who believes in standing up for what is right, even when it is difficult.

Despite his strengths, Wang Dingliu also has his weaknesses. He is known to be a heavy drinker, and he sometimes lets his love of alcohol get in the way of his duties as an outlaw. He is also a bit of a hothead, and he sometimes gets into arguments with his fellow outlaws.

In conclusion, Wang Dingliu is a memorable character in “Water Margin”, who embodies many of the novel’s themes and values. He is a skilled martial artist and a loyal friend, who is always willing to put himself in harm’s way to protect his comrades. His character provides a glimpse into the complicated nature of the outlaws of Liangshan Marsh, who are both heroes and criminals at the same time. Wang Dingliu is a character who continues to captivate readers and audiences to this day, thanks to his strength, loyalty, and sense of justice.

Sun Erniang – Water Margin

Sun Erniang is a fictional character in Water Margin, one of the Four Great Classical Novels in Chinese literature. Nicknamed “Female Yaksha”, she ranks 103rd among the 108 Stars of Destiny and 67th among the 72 Earthly Fiends. Wikipedia
Significant other: Zhang Qing
Notable aliases: “Female Yaksha”, 母夜叉
Parents: Zhang Qing
Simplified Chinese: 孙二娘
Traditional Chinese: 孫二娘


Sun Erniang, also known as Sun the Elder or Sun Xing, is one of the most beloved characters in the Chinese classic novel “Water Margin” (Shuihu Zhuan). As a skilled warrior and leader of a group of bandits, Sun Erniang is known for her bravery, intelligence, and fierce loyalty to her fellow outlaws. In this essay, we will explore her character and the role she plays in the novel.

Sun Erniang is introduced in Chapter 4 of “Water Margin,” where she is described as a tall, handsome woman with a commanding presence. She is the wife of the bandit chief Zhang Qing, who is known for his cunning and cruelty. However, Sun Erniang is not intimidated by her husband and is often the voice of reason in their relationship. She encourages Zhang Qing to be more compassionate and fair to the people they rob, and she is not afraid to stand up to him when he acts cruelly or recklessly.

After Zhang Qing is killed by the imperial troops, Sun Erniang takes over as the leader of the bandits. She proves herself to be a capable and charismatic leader, and her group of outlaws becomes known as one of the most feared and respected in the region. Under Sun Erniang’s leadership, the bandits develop a code of honor that emphasizes loyalty, justice, and compassion for the poor and oppressed. She also shows a great deal of strategic intelligence, using guerilla tactics to outwit the government officials who are sent to capture her.

One of the most famous episodes involving Sun Erniang occurs in Chapter 27 of the novel. She and her band of outlaws encounter a group of traveling merchants who are being harassed by a group of rogue soldiers. Sun Erniang intervenes to protect the merchants and defeats the soldiers in a fierce battle. She then invites the merchants to join her group of outlaws and becomes a mentor to the young apprentice Wu Song, who goes on to become one of the most famous heroes in the novel.

Sun Erniang is also known for her relationship with the bandit leader Wu Song. Although they have a strong emotional connection, they are never able to express their love for each other openly due to their obligations to their respective groups. Despite this, they remain loyal friends and allies throughout the novel, and their bond is one of the most touching and enduring in the story.

Overall, Sun Erniang is a complex and compelling character who embodies many of the themes and values of “Water Margin.” She is a fierce warrior and a skilled strategist, but she is also a compassionate and empathetic leader who cares deeply for the people she protects. Her relationship with Wu Song and her role as a mentor to the young outlaws in her group add depth and richness to her character, making her one of the most beloved figures in the novel.

Zhang Qing – Water Margin

Zhang Qing is a fictional character in Water Margin, one of the Four Great Classical Novels in Chinese literature. Nicknamed “Gardener”, he ranks 102nd among the 108 Stars of Destiny and 66th among the 72 Earthly Fiends. Wikipedia
Simplified Chinese: 张青


Zhang Qing, also known as Zhang Shun, is one of the characters in the classic Chinese novel “Water Margin,” written by Shi Nai’an in the 14th century. Zhang Qing is a member of the Liangshan Marsh bandit gang, which consists of 108 outlaws who have come together to form a Robin Hood-like group that steals from the rich and helps the poor. Zhang Qing is one of the many unique and memorable characters in the novel, and his story is both intriguing and tragic.

Zhang Qing’s backstory is not fully revealed in the novel, but we know that he is from a family of wealthy merchants in Jiangnan, a region south of the Yangtze River. Zhang Qing is described as tall and handsome, with a strong sense of justice and a kind heart. However, his parents died when he was young, and he was left in the care of his older brother, who was cruel and abusive. Zhang Qing eventually had enough of his brother’s mistreatment and ran away from home, becoming a monk and joining the Shaolin Temple.

At the Shaolin Temple, Zhang Qing learned martial arts and became a skilled fighter. He was eventually forced to leave the temple, however, after getting into a fight with another monk over a woman. After leaving the temple, Zhang Qing traveled around the country, using his martial arts skills to help people in need. He eventually came across the Liangshan Marsh gang and joined them, becoming one of the group’s most valuable members.

Zhang Qing’s skills as a fighter are highlighted in several episodes in the novel. For example, he defeats a tiger with his bare hands and fights off a group of enemies while standing on top of a tree. Zhang Qing is also a skilled archer, and he is able to shoot an arrow through a willow leaf from a distance of over a hundred paces.

One of the most notable aspects of Zhang Qing’s character is his sense of justice. He is described as being very principled and always striving to do what is right. For example, when the Liangshan Marsh gang decides to become bandits, Zhang Qing is initially hesitant to join, as he does not want to engage in illegal activities. However, he eventually joins the gang after realizing that they are using their stolen wealth to help the poor.

Despite his many positive traits, Zhang Qing’s story is ultimately tragic. In one of the novel’s most memorable scenes, he is captured by the enemy Song army and offered a chance to join their side. Zhang Qing refuses, and is brutally tortured and killed. His death is described in graphic detail, and the scene is a testament to the cruelty and violence of the times in which the novel is set.

In conclusion, Zhang Qing is a fascinating and memorable character in “Water Margin.” His backstory, skills as a fighter, and strong sense of justice make him a compelling figure in the novel. However, his tragic end serves as a reminder of the harsh realities of life in medieval China.

Gu Dasao – Water Margin

Gu Dasao is a fictional character in Water Margin, one of the Four Great Classical Novels of Chinese literature. Nicknamed “Female Tiger”, she ranks 101st among the 108 Stars of Destiny and 65th among the 72 Earthly Fiends. Wikipedia
Significant other: Sun Xin
Notable aliases: “Female Tiger”, 母大蟲
First appearance: Chapter 49


Gu Dasao, also known as Guanyin Hong, is a character in the classic Chinese novel “Water Margin,” written by Shi Nai’an in the 14th century. She is the wife of the Liangshan Marsh bandit Wu Song and is known for her strong will and intelligence. Gu Dasao is one of the few female characters in the novel, and her story is both tragic and inspiring.

Gu Dasao was born into a wealthy family, but she was forced to marry Wu Song, a poor fisherman, when she was still very young. Despite their humble beginnings, the couple was very much in love, and Gu Dasao remained devoted to Wu Song throughout their marriage. When Wu Song was falsely accused of murder and sent to prison, Gu Dasao worked tirelessly to prove his innocence. She eventually succeeded in clearing his name and securing his release, but the experience left her with a deep-seated distrust of the legal system and a fierce desire for justice.

After Wu Song’s release, the couple moved to the city of Jinan, where Wu Song became a restaurant owner. Gu Dasao worked alongside her husband, managing the business and building a successful reputation as a savvy businesswoman. However, their happy life was shattered when Wu Song was betrayed by his business partner and killed in a violent confrontation. Gu Dasao was left alone, with no family or means of support.

Despite her grief, Gu Dasao refused to give up. She used her intelligence and business acumen to turn the restaurant into a thriving enterprise, earning the respect of her customers and employees. She also became a mentor and friend to other women in the community, helping them to navigate the challenges of life in a male-dominated society. Her strength and resilience made her a beloved figure in Jinan, and she was eventually granted an official position as a community leader.

However, Gu Dasao’s story takes a tragic turn when she is betrayed by a member of her own family. Her nephew, who had been left in her care, conspires with corrupt officials to steal her business and have her arrested. Despite her innocence, Gu Dasao is imprisoned and sentenced to death. In a dramatic scene, she manages to escape from prison and seeks refuge with the Liangshan Marsh bandits, where she is eventually reunited with her husband’s former comrades.

As a member of the Liangshan Marsh gang, Gu Dasao becomes a powerful force for justice and righteousness. She is instrumental in several key battles, using her intelligence and cunning to outwit the gang’s enemies. Her courage and leadership inspire the other members of the gang, and she becomes one of their most trusted advisors.

In conclusion, Gu Dasao is a complex and compelling character in “Water Margin.” Her story is a testament to the resilience and strength of women in a patriarchal society, and her determination to seek justice and right wrongs makes her a powerful force for good. Despite the many challenges and tragedies she faces, Gu Dasao never loses sight of her principles and remains true to herself and her beliefs. Her legacy is a lasting reminder of the enduring power of the human spirit.

Sun Xin – Water Margin

Sun Xin is a fictional character in Water Margin, one of the Four Great Classical Novels in Chinese literature. Nicknamed “Little Yuchi”, he ranks 100th among the 108 Stars of Destiny and 64th among the 72 Earthly Fiends. Wikipedia
Significant other: Gu Dasao
Notable aliases: “Little Yuchi”, 小尉遲
Simplified Chinese: 孙新


Sun Xin is a character in the classic Chinese novel “Water Margin,” written by Shi Nai’an in the 14th century. He is a skilled martial artist and strategist who joins the Liangshan Marsh bandits and becomes one of their key leaders. Sun Xin’s story is one of loyalty, bravery, and ingenuity, and his contributions to the Liangshan cause are instrumental in their eventual success.

Sun Xin was born into a wealthy family, but he was forced to flee from his hometown after killing a corrupt official who had wronged his family. He eventually made his way to Liangshan Marsh, where he encountered the bandits who had gathered there. Impressed by his martial arts skills and strategic thinking, the bandits invited Sun Xin to join their cause. Sun Xin accepted, recognizing the potential for a greater good through the banditry.

Sun Xin quickly became one of the key leaders of the Liangshan Marsh bandits. He was instrumental in several key battles, using his skills and tactics to outsmart their enemies. Sun Xin’s loyalty to his comrades was unwavering, and he was always willing to put himself in danger to protect them. He was known for his quiet, unassuming demeanor and his willingness to do whatever was necessary to achieve their goals.

One of Sun Xin’s most memorable accomplishments was his successful defense of Liangshan Marsh against a massive assault by government troops. Sun Xin led the defense, using his knowledge of the marshland terrain to create a series of traps and obstacles that effectively stopped the advancing army. He also coordinated the efforts of his fellow bandits, using their individual strengths to maximize their effectiveness as a fighting force. The success of the defense cemented Sun Xin’s reputation as a brilliant strategist and commander.

Despite his martial prowess, Sun Xin was not a violent or bloodthirsty man. He often tried to find peaceful solutions to conflicts, using negotiation and diplomacy whenever possible. He was also deeply devoted to his family, and he used his wealth and influence to support them from afar. Sun Xin’s sense of justice and fairness made him a beloved figure among the bandits, and his advice was sought out by many.

Sun Xin’s loyalty to the Liangshan Marsh bandits was tested when a government official offered him a pardon and a high-ranking position in exchange for betraying his comrades. Sun Xin refused, recognizing that his loyalty to his friends and to the cause of justice was more important than personal gain. He continued to fight alongside his fellow bandits, even in the face of overwhelming odds.

In conclusion, Sun Xin is a key character in “Water Margin” whose contributions to the Liangshan Marsh bandits were instrumental in their success. His intelligence, loyalty, and martial arts skills made him a valuable member of the group, and his strategic thinking and leadership were crucial in several key battles. Sun Xin’s story is a testament to the power of loyalty and the importance of standing up for one’s beliefs, even in the face of great adversity.

Li Yun – Water Margin

Li Yun” is a fictional character in the classic Chinese novel “The Water Margin.” He is one of the 108 outlaws who gather at Liangshan Marsh, and is known for his bravery and fighting skills.

In the novel, Li Yun is described as a tall and sturdy man with a long beard. He is one of the first members to join the outlaw band and quickly becomes one of their most trusted leaders. Li Yun is skilled in both martial arts and strategy, and is often called upon to lead the Liangshan forces in battles against the enemy.

Despite his tough exterior, Li Yun is also known for his compassion and sense of justice. He is one of the most respected members of the Liangshan community, and is admired by both his fellow outlaws and the people of the surrounding villages.

In the course of the novel, Li Yun takes part in many of the major battles and adventures that the Liangshan outlaws undertake, including the campaigns against the powerful and corrupt government officials, the rescue of the captive Song Jiang, and the eventual incorporation of the Liangshan outlaws into the imperial army to serve the Song dynasty.

Throughout “The Water Margin,” Li Yun is depicted as a loyal and honorable warrior who fights for justice and the well-being of his fellow outlaws and the common people. He is a beloved character in the novel and is remembered for his courage and dedication to his cause.

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