Contents
Biography & Historical Record
Yan Shun (燕顺, Yến Thuận), known by his nickname ‘Brocade-Clothed Tiger’ (Cẩm Mao Hổ), is a fictional character in the classical Chinese novel Water Margin. Originally a merchant who dealt in livestock, Yan Shun suffered a business failure that led him to turn to banditry. He became the chief of the bandits stationed at Mount Qingfeng, sharing leadership with Wang Ying (王英, Vương Anh) and Zheng Tianshou (郑天寿, Trịnh Thiên Thọ).
He is a character characterized by his hot temper and loyalty to his sworn brothers. After Song Jiang (宋江, Tống Giang) was rescued by the bandits from Mount Qingfeng, Yan Shun pledged his loyalty to the Liangshan cause. He played an instrumental role in the mountain’s expansion and eventually rose to the rank of one of the 72 Earthly Fiends, serving as a cavalry commander.
Role in Romance of the Three Kingdoms
While the character does not appear in the Romance of the Three Kingdoms, he represents the archetype of the righteous brigand whose transition from outlaw to military leader reflects the traditional Chinese values of loyalty and martial prowess.
Yan Shun — Historical & Literary Timeline
Chapter 32
The Alliance at Mount Qingfeng
Yan Shun encounters Song Jiang (宋江, Tống Giang) and discovers his identity as the righteous man who saved his own life previously. He vows loyalty to him, bringing the resources of Mount Qingfeng to the Liangshan cause.
Chapter 119
The End at Qingxi
During the final campaign against the rebellion of Fang La (方腊, Phương Lạp), Yan Shun is struck by a flying stone launched by a catapult during the battle at Qingxi, meeting his end alongside many other Liangshan heroes.
Key Relationships
- Sworn Brothers at Mount Qingfeng
- Wang Ying (王英, Vương Anh): His fellow leader and close associate in battle.
- Zheng Tianshou (郑天寿, Trịnh Thiên Thọ): Another peer who co-ruled the mountain and later served in the Liangshan cavalry.
- Superiors and Comrades
- Song Jiang (宋江, Tống Giang): The primary leader of Liangshan to whom Yan Shun remained fiercely devoted until death.
