Contents
Biography & Historical Record
Xie Zhen (解珍, Giải Trân), also known by his nickname ‘Two-Headed Snake’, is a fictional character in the classic Chinese novel Water Margin. A native of Dengzhou, he was a skilled hunter known for his immense strength and proficiency with the iron-pointed hunting fork. Along with his younger brother Xie Bao (解宝, Giải Bảo), he initially lived as a mountain hunter. Their lives changed drastically when they were framed by the wealthy 毛 (Máo) family. After being rescued by Sun Xin (孙新, Tôn Tân) and Gu Dasao (顾大嫂, Cố Đại Tẩu), the brothers joined the outlaws of Liangshan Marsh. Within the Liangshan hierarchy, Xie Zhen is ranked 34th and is one of the leaders of the infantry units, identified by the Heavenly Precious Star (Tiān Bào Xīng).
Role in Romance of the Three Kingdoms
While Xie Zhen is a character of the Northern Song era in Water Margin and does not appear in the Romance of the Three Kingdoms, his archetype as a rugged, mountain-dwelling warrior mirrors the forest-dwelling rebels and specialized scouts often found in the chaotic localized conflicts of the Three Kingdoms period. His expertise in mountain navigation and hunting makes him a precursor to the specialized infantry tactics employed by figures like Wei Yan (魏延, Ngụy Diên) in the mountainous regions of Hanzhong.
Xie Zhen — Historical & Literary Timeline
Chapter 49
The Tiger Hunt and Imprisonment
Xie Zhen and Xie Bao hunt a tiger that wanders into the garden of the Mao family, only to be accused of theft, leading to their unjust imprisonment.
Chapter 50
Escaping to Liangshan
With the help of Sun Xin and Gu Dasao, the brothers break out of prison, kill their persecutors, and pledge allegiance to Song Jiang (宋江, Tống Giang) at Liangshan.
Chapter 114
The Final Campaign
During the final campaign against the rebel Fang La (方腊, Phương Lạp), Xie Zhen attempts to scale the cliffs of Phoenix Pavilion. He is discovered by the enemy, who cut the ropes, causing him to fall to his death.
Key Relationships
- The 108 Liangshan Heroes
- Song Jiang (宋江, Tống Giang): Served as his loyal commander during the northern and southern expeditions.
- Xie Bao (解宝, Giải Bảo): His biological brother and constant companion in arms, with whom he shared a deep bond of mutual protection.
- Sun Xin (孙新, Tôn Tân): The strategist who facilitated their escape from Dengzhou, cementing their entry into the Liangshan brotherhood.
