Contents
Biography & Historical Record
Shi Xiu (石秀, Thạch Tú) is a prominent fictional character in the classic Chinese novel Water Margin. Originally a merchant from Jiankang, he is renowned for his extraordinary courage, resourcefulness, and fierce loyalty. His moniker, ‘Bing Ming San Lang’, translates to ‘The Rash Life-Risker’, reflecting his reckless disregard for his own safety when pursuing justice or defending his honor.
Shi Xiu is perhaps most famous for his role in saving Lu Junyi (卢俊义, Lư Tuấn Nghĩa). After discovering the treachery of Lu Junyi’s wife, Jia Shi (贾氏, Giả thị), and the steward Li Gu (李固, Lý Cố), he single-handedly exposed their conspiracy. His most iconic scene involves him jumping from a second-story building to save Lu Junyi from execution, showcasing his unparalleled fighting prowess and audacity.
Role in Romance of the Three Kingdoms
While Shi Xiu is a character of the Northern Song Dynasty and does not appear in the Three Kingdoms era, his archetype—the righteous, fearless warrior-outlaw—mirrors the martial virtues highly praised in the traditions of the Three Kingdoms period, particularly those of the Shu Han generals who prioritized loyalty above all else.
Shi Xiu — Historical & Literary Timeline
Chapter 44
The Meeting in Jizhou
Shi Xiu meets Yang Xiong (杨雄, Dương Hùng) and becomes his sworn brother. He soon proves his worth by investigating the illicit affairs involving Yang Xiong’s wife, Pan Qiaoyun (潘巧云, Phan Xảo Vân).
Chapter 62
The Rescue of the Jade Qilin
Shi Xiu exhibits legendary courage by entering the execution grounds at Daming Prefecture to rescue Lu Junyi, fighting off waves of guards to ensure his companion’s safety.
Chapter 115
The Final Sacrifice
During the campaign against Fang La (方腊, Phương Lạp), Shi Xiu is killed in an ambush at Yuling Pass, meeting his end as fearlessly as he lived.
Key Relationships
- Sworn Brotherhood
- Yang Xiong (杨雄, Dương Hùng): A close ally with whom Shi Xiu shared a deep bond of loyalty and adventure.
- Lu Junyi (卢俊义, Lư Tuấn Nghĩa): The master whom Shi Xiu saved, cementing his status as a legendary figure in the Liangshan hierarchy.
- Liangshan Peers
- Song Jiang (宋江, Tống Giang): The supreme leader to whom Shi Xiu pledged his service after joining the outlaws.
