A Discussion On Guan Zhong By Su Xun, Su Shi And Su Zhe

In recent years, many scholars of the academic field have given a careful and thorough research on Guan Zhong and the three scholars, Su Xun, Su Shi and Su Zhe. Unfortunately, fewer people explore the relationship between Guan Zhong and the three scholars. As a matter of fact, Su Xun, Su Shi and Su Zhe show much concern on Guan Zhong. They have the same articles entitled "On Guan Zhong" respectively. Based on the imperfection this paper attempts to explore the assessment and exposition on Guan Zhong by Su Xun, Su Shi and Su Zhe and analyze the historical influence of Guan Zhong and the same and different views on the same person from the three scholars mentioned above so that both the three scholars and Guan Zhong would be better understood. It also intends to start further research on this issue from the academic field.Guan Zhong is a well-known political reformist, military strategist and economist in ancient China. He stays in Qi state for 40 years and helps Qi Huangong, the emperor of Qi state, reform the internal affairs, vitalize economy, enrich the country and strengthen its military force. Finally they establish a great cause of national reunification through multicontact with the small states. As a result, Qi becomes the head of the five powers in the Spring and Autumn Period and thus it creates a profound effect on the future generation. Su Xun, Su Shi and Su Zhe are adept in historical essays as they live in the same times, same family and are affected by the same culture. Moreover, Su Xun keeps harmonious relationship with his sons, Su Shi and Su Zhe. Su Shi and Su Zhe are on good terms as brothers. Because of the same schooling and sibship, the three scholars give similar evaluations on the same person and the historical events. So they have a lot in common in the article of On Guan Zhong. On one hand, they confirm the merits of Guan Zhong and speak highly of him on his political talent, military thoughts, economic principles and survival strategies. On the other, they also find Guan Zhong's shortcomings. In particular, he doesn't stick at trifles and 'knows nothing about ethics'. And further he can not recommend the capable and virtuous persons. Hence, it results in the disorder of Qi state. However, men of virtue always seek common ground on major issues while reserving differences on minor ones. As Su Xun, Su Shi and Su Zhe have different characters, talents and life experiences, their evaluations on Guan Zhong differ. But this just reflects their different literary styles and their different views of history and values.