Contents
Biography & Historical Record
Lu Fang (吕方, Lữ Phương), known by the nickname ‘Little Marquis of Wen’ (Xiao Wen Hou), is a fictional character in the classic Chinese literary work Water Margin. He is one of the 108 Heroes of Liangshan and ranks as the 54th star, corresponding to the Earth Subordinate Star. Lu Fang was originally a herbalist who operated as a bandit on Mount Yinghuo. His nickname and style of weaponry are tributes to the legendary Three Kingdoms general Lu Bu (吕布, Lữ Bố), as he also wielded a Crescent-Moon Halberd and dressed in red battle attire to emulate the famous warrior.
Role in Romance of the Three Kingdoms
While Lu Fang is not a character in the historical Romance of the Three Kingdoms, his entire persona is constructed as a literary homage to the historical figure Lu Bu (吕布, Lữ Bố). His skills and equipment are deliberate imitations of the ‘Flying General’.
Lu Fang — Historical & Literary Timeline
Chapter 35
The Duel at Mount Yinghuo
Lu Fang and Guo Sheng (郭盛, Quách Thịnh) engage in a protracted duel on Mount Yinghuo, as both claim the mountain as their territory. Their fight is halted by Hua Rong (花荣, Hoa Vinh), who uses his legendary archery skills to sever the silk cords of their halberds, forcing them to reconcile and join the Liangshan rebels.
Chapter 119
The Final Siege at Muzhou
During the campaign against the rebel leader Fang La (方腊, Phương Lạp), Lu Fang and Guo Sheng are tasked with guarding the army’s vanguard. At the narrow pass of Muzhou, they are ambushed and killed when rocks and debris are rolled down upon them, resulting in the death of both partners.
Key Relationships
- Liangshan Peers
- Guo Sheng (郭盛, Quách Thịnh): His inseparable sworn brother and partner in combat; they shared the duty of guarding the leader’s tent.
- Hua Rong (花荣, Hoa Vinh): The commander who stopped their infighting and facilitated their recruitment into the Liangshan brotherhood.
