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Biography and Historical Record of Xi Zheng
Xi Zheng (died 278 AD), courtesy name Lingxian, was an accomplished scholar-official hailing from Yanshi. He dedicated his talents to Shu Han during the tumultuous Three Kingdoms era. Renowned for profound erudition, literary eloquence, and incorruptibility, he served as a confidential Palace Attendant (Mishu Ling) under the second sovereign, Liu Shan. Amidst fierce factional rivalries and eunuch interference, the scholar preserved state archives and maintained upright conduct.
When Shu Han surrendered to Cao Wei in 263 AD, he made the selfless decision to leave his own family behind, faithfully escorting the deposed emperor into exile at Luoyang. During banquets hosted by Sima Zhao, the adviser secretly tutored the captive ruler to express heartfelt longing for his lost homeland. Following the dynastic transition to Western Jin, Emperor Wu admired his unwavering loyalty and appointed him Grand Administrator of Xincheng, where he governed with distinction until his death in 278 AD.
Role in Romance of the Three Kingdoms
In historical fiction, Xi Zheng is depicted as a steadfast intellectual pillar who stood by his sovereign during the empire’s twilight. While lesser courtiers fled or sought personal gain, he offered prudent counsel, embodying the honorable values of traditional Han scholars.
Key Relationships
- Family: His father Xi Qia served as a Commandery Administrator, while his grandfather Xi Jian was Inspector of Yi Province during the late Eastern Han era.
- Liu Shan: Xi Zheng loyally served the Shu emperor for three decades and shielded him through humiliation and exile in Luoyang.
- Chen Shou: The author of Records of the Three Kingdoms lauded his moral stature and preserved his philosophical essay Shi Si Lun.
- Sima Yan: The founding Jin ruler praised his integrity and elevated him to govern Xincheng and Badong.
- Huang Hao: The corrupt palace eunuch whose destructive factionalism was quietly resisted by upright ministers.
- Sima Zhao & Deng Ai: Notable Wei leaders who precipitated the conquest of Chengdu and oversaw the pacification of Shu Han.
In Novel
Chapter 91
- Xi Zheng (郤正, Khích Chính): Xi Zheng is listed among the Shu officials remaining in the court after Zhuge Liang’s southern campaign.
Chapter 109
- Xi Zheng (郤正, Khích Chính): Xi Zheng serves in the late Shu court while political pressure around Liu Shan, Huang Hao and Jiang Wei increases.
Chapter 115
- Xi Zheng (郤正, Khích Chính): Xi Zheng is involved in the court discussions during the later Shu political crisis.
Chapter 117
- Xi Zheng (郤正, Khích Chính): As Wei approaches Chengdu, Xi Zheng advises Liu Shan to summon Zhuge Zhan and organize the city’s defense.
Chapter 119
- Xi Zheng (郤正, Khích Chính): After Shu falls, Xi Zheng remains associated with the former Shu court during its surrender to Wei.
History
Summary
- Xi Zheng (郤正, Khích Chính) was a Shu Han scholar and official who served Liu Shan.
Literary Career
- Xi Zheng was known for his literary ability and served in the Shu court as a writer and adviser.
- He was involved in composing official documents and diplomatic communications.
After the Fall of Shu
- After Shu surrendered to Wei, Xi Zheng remained associated with Liu Shan and later served under the Jin government.
- He was remembered for his loyalty and literary talent.
Classification
- Historical.