Listen to this articleDu Qian is a fictional character in Water Margin, one of the Four Great Classical Novels in Chinese literature. Nicknamed “Touching the Sky”, he ranks 83rd among the 108 Stars of Destiny and 47th among the 72 Earthly Fiends. Wikipedia
Du Qian is one of the main characters in the classic Chinese novel “Water Margin,” also known as “Outlaws of the Marsh.” He is a skilled archer and an important member of the group of 108 outlaws who gather at Mount Liang to form a rebel band that fights against corrupt government officials during the Song Dynasty.
Du Qian is depicted as a brave and loyal character who is always ready to defend his fellow outlaws. He is known for his archery skills, which he uses to great effect in many battles against the government forces.
The novel does not provide much information about Du Qian’s background, but it is said that he was a native of Shandong province and that he was originally a soldier in the imperial army before he became an outlaw. He is also known to have a wife and children, whom he deeply loves and often thinks of during his time with the outlaw band.
One of Du Qian’s most notable moments in the novel occurs during a battle against the government forces. The rebels are heavily outnumbered and outmatched, but Du Qian manages to turn the tide of the battle by using his archery skills to strike down several enemy soldiers. His bravery and skill inspire the other outlaws and help them to win the battle.
Du Qian’s loyalty to his fellow outlaws is also evident in his interactions with the other characters in the novel. He is particularly close with his fellow archer Wu Yong, whom he often fights alongside in battles.
In addition to his combat skills, Du Qian is also a skilled strategist who is often called upon to devise battle plans for the outlaw band. He is particularly adept at creating diversionary tactics, such as creating decoys or setting traps, to confuse and disorient the enemy forces.
However, despite his many successes, Du Qian also faces his share of setbacks and challenges in the novel. In one notable scene, he is captured by the government officials and is subjected to torture in order to reveal the location of the outlaw band’s hideout. He manages to resist the torture and refuses to betray his comrades, demonstrating his unwavering loyalty to the rebel cause.
In another scene, Du Qian and Wu Yong are sent on a secret mission to deliver a message to a fellow rebel. Along the way, they encounter a group of enemy soldiers and engage in a fierce battle. Despite being outnumbered, they manage to fight off the enemy and successfully deliver the message, once again demonstrating their bravery and skill.
In conclusion, Du Qian is a beloved character in “Water Margin” who embodies the ideals of loyalty, bravery, and skill. His contributions to the rebel cause are invaluable, and his archery skills and strategic thinking help the outlaws win many battles against the government forces. Despite the challenges and setbacks he faces, Du Qian remains steadfast in his commitment to his comrades and the rebel cause, and his legacy continues to inspire readers today.
