Contents
Biography & Historical Record
Wang Ying (王英, Vương Anh), nicknamed the ‘Short-Statured Tiger’ (Ách Hổ), is one of the 108 Stars of Destiny in the classic Chinese novel Water Margin. Originally a carriage driver, he turned to a life of banditry after squandering his employer’s money. He eventually joined the band of outlaws at Mount Qingfeng alongside Yan Shun (燕順, Yến Thuận) and Zheng Tianshou (鄭天壽, Trịnh Thiên Thọ). Wang Ying is infamous for his short stature, his unbridled lust, and his lack of chivalry in his early days, often forcing women to marry him against their will.
Role in Romance of the Three Kingdoms
Despite his lack of traditional moral virtues, Wang Ying’s martial prowess and his eventual loyalty to the Liangshan cause earned him a position as one of the commanders of the cavalry. His life changed dramatically when Song Jiang (宋江, Tống Giang) brokered a marriage between him and the captured warrior Hu Sanniang (扈三娘, Hộ Tam Nương), an arrangement that forced him to restrain his darker impulses. He died alongside his wife during the final, tragic campaign against the rebel Fang La (方臘, Phương Lạp), where he was killed by the enemy general Zheng Biao (鄭彪, Trịnh Bưu).
Wang Ying — Historical & Literary Timeline
Chapter 31
Introduction at Mount Qingfeng
Wang Ying is introduced as a bandit leader at Mount Qingfeng who captures Song Jiang (宋江, Tống Giang) but releases him after realizing his identity.
Chapter 48
The Battle for Hu Family Village
Wang Ying fights Hu Sanniang (扈三娘, Hộ Tam Nương) but is defeated and captured by her, leading to their later marriage.
Chapter 119
The Final Sacrifice
During the battle against the forces of Fang La (方臘, Phương Lạp), Wang Ying is struck down and killed by Zheng Biao (鄭彪, Trịnh Bưu).
Key Relationships
- The Outlaws of Liangshan
- Song Jiang (宋江, Tống Giang): The leader whom Wang Ying pledged his absolute loyalty to following his recruitment.
- Hu Sanniang (扈三娘, Hộ Tam Nương): His wife and partner in combat; their pairing is one of the most iconic romantic unions in the novel.
- Yan Shun (燕順, Yến Thuận): His sworn brother and leader at Mount Qingfeng.
