Contents
Biography & Historical Record
Ou Peng (欧鹏, Âu Bằng) is a fictional character in the classical Chinese novel Water Margin (Shuǐhǔ Zhuàn). Originally a native of Huangzhou, he served as a professional soldier and garrison guard before becoming a bandit leader at Huangmen Mountain alongside Jiang Jing, Ma Lin, and Tao Zongwang. Known for his exceptional agility and skill with the spear, he earned the nickname ‘Golden-Winged Hawk Brushing the Clouds’ (摩雲金翅) due to his speed and fighting prowess. Upon hearing of Song Jiang’s (宋江, Tống Giang) reputation, he and his companions joined the Liangshan band. Within the 108 Heroes of Liangshan, Ou Peng is ranked 48th and serves as one of the commanders of the infantry.
Role in Romance of the Three Kingdoms
While Ou Peng does not appear in Romance of the Three Kingdoms, his archetype reflects the brave, loyal, yet tragic martial figures often found in classical literature. His role is defined by his absolute loyalty to the Liangshan cause and his ultimate sacrifice during the final, grueling campaign against the rebel Fang La (方臘, Phương Lạp). His death at the hands of the archer Pang Wanchun (龐萬春, Bàng Vạn Xuân) is considered one of the most heartbreaking moments of the novel, marking the beginning of the end for the brotherhood.
Ou Peng — Historical & Literary Timeline
Chapter 41
Joining Liangshan
Ou Peng, along with his bandit brothers from Huangmen Mountain, decides to pledge allegiance to Song Jiang (宋江, Tống Giang) after witnessing his leadership.
Chapter 114
The Final Stand
During the Southern Campaign, Ou Peng challenges the enemy archer Pang Wanchun (龐萬春, Bàng Vạn Xuân). Despite his agility, he is lured into a trap and killed by a volley of arrows, marking his final act of defiance.
Key Relationships
- Liangshan Peers
- Song Jiang (宋江, Tống Giang): His supreme leader to whom he remained loyal until death.
- Ma Lin (馬麟, Mã Lân): His close companion from their days as bandit leaders at Huangmen Mountain.
- Pang Wanchun (龐萬春, Bàng Vạn Xuân): His mortal enemy who orchestrated his demise.
