Contents
Biography & Historical Record
Shi Yong (石勇, Thạch Dũng), known by his nickname ‘Stone General’, is one of the 108 Stars of Destiny in the classic Chinese novel Water Margin. Hailing from Daming Prefecture, he is a skilled martial artist and gambler who wanders the world. He is ranked 99th among the 108 heroes of Liangshan, corresponding to the Earth Ugly Star (地丑星). Despite his relatively low rank, he is a fiercely loyal warrior who contributes significantly to the military operations of the Liangshan brotherhood.
Role in Water Margin
“Though not a high-ranking chieftain, his loyalty to the justice of Liangshan remains as solid as the stone for which he is named.”
Shi Yong first encounters Song Jiang (宋江, Tống Giang) in a tavern in Daming Prefecture. He is introduced while gambling, a pursuit he is known for, and later proves his worth through his prowess with the staff and broadsword. Upon joining the Liangshan rebels, he serves as an infantry officer. He participates in the various campaigns orchestrated by the imperial government to use the Liangshan outlaws against domestic rebels and foreign invaders. His career culminates in the tragic Campaign against Fang La (方腊, Phương Lạp), where he falls in battle.
Shi Yong — Historical & Literary Timeline
Chapter 77
Introduction and Recruitment
Shi Yong makes his appearance in Daming Prefecture, where he meets Song Jiang and subsequently joins the Liangshan Marsh bandit group.
Chapter 119
Death in the Fang La Campaign
During the final and most devastating campaign against Fang La, Shi Yong is killed in action during the siege of Yuhang County.
Key Relationships
- Liangshan Chieftains
- Song Jiang (宋江, Tống Giang): His leader, whom he respects and follows with unwavering loyalty after their initial meeting in Daming.
- Li Kui (李逵, Lý Quỳ): A fellow infantry commander with whom he shares the heat of the battlefield in the southern campaigns.
