Xue Yong is a fictional character in Water Margin, one of the Four Great Classical Novels of Chinese literature. Nicknamed “Sick Tiger”, he ranks 84th among the 108 Stars of Destiny and 48th among the 72 Earthly Fiends. Wikipedia
Notable aliases: “Sick Tiger”, 病大蟲
Played by: Wang Zhifei, Li Shu
Simplified Chinese: 薛永
Xue Yong is a prominent character in the classic Chinese novel “Water Margin,” which is also known as “Outlaws of the Marsh.” He is one of the 108 outlaws who gather at Mount Liang to form a rebel group that fights against the corrupt government officials of the Song Dynasty.
Xue Yong is depicted as a skilled warrior and a loyal friend to his fellow outlaws. He is known for his bravery, intelligence, and cunning, which he uses to help his comrades in various battles against the government forces.
Xue Yong’s backstory is not well-developed in the novel, but it is said that he came from a wealthy family and was a scholar before he became an outlaw. He is also known to have a wife and children, who he is deeply devoted to and often thinks of during his time with the outlaw band.
One of Xue Yong’s most notable moments in the novel occurs when he helps his fellow outlaw Wu Song avenge his brother’s murder. Wu Song’s brother was killed by a corrupt government official named Pan Jinlian and her lover Ximen Qing. Xue Yong devises a plan to lure Pan and Ximen into a trap, which ultimately leads to their capture and execution.
In addition to his combat skills, Xue Yong 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 setting fires or creating loud noises, to distract the enemy forces.
Xue Yong’s loyalty to his friends and fellow outlaws is also evident in his interactions with the other characters in the novel. He is particularly close with Wu Song, whom he helps avenge his brother’s death, and he is also a good friend to Lu Zhishen, another prominent outlaw in the story.
Throughout the novel, Xue Yong plays an important role in the battles between the outlaws and the government forces. His skills and strategic thinking help the rebels win many battles, but he also faces his share of challenges and setbacks along the way.
In one notable scene, Xue Yong is captured by the government officials and is forced to fight in a gladiatorial contest against another captive. He manages to win the fight by using his intelligence and agility to outmaneuver his opponent.
Despite his successes, Xue Yong ultimately meets a tragic end in the novel. He is killed in a battle against the government forces, but his legacy lives on through his comrades and the outlaw band as a whole.
In conclusion, Xue Yong is a complex and well-loved character in “Water Margin” who embodies the ideals of loyalty, bravery, and intelligence. His contributions to the rebel cause are invaluable, and his legacy continues to inspire readers today.