Gong Wang is a fictional character in Water Margin, one of the Four Great Classical Novels in Chinese literature. Nicknamed “Flowery Necked Tiger”, he ranks 78th among the 108 Stars of Destiny and 42nd among the 72 Earthly Fiends. Wikipedia
Simplified Chinese: 龚旺
Gong Wang is a character in the classic Chinese novel “Water Margin,” also known as “Outlaws of the Marsh” or “All Men Are Brothers.” Gong Wang is a complex and fascinating character who undergoes significant changes over the course of the novel.
When Gong Wang is first introduced, he is a wealthy and powerful merchant who uses his wealth and influence to bully and intimidate those around him. He is known for his greed and his cruel treatment of those who cannot stand up to him. However, despite his many flaws, Gong Wang is not entirely unsympathetic. He is shown to be a loving father to his daughter, and he is capable of acts of kindness when it suits his interests.
As the novel progresses, Gong Wang undergoes a dramatic transformation. He is captured by the outlaws and taken to their hideout, where he is forced to confront the error of his ways. Over time, Gong Wang begins to realize the true nature of his own greed and selfishness, and he becomes a more humble and compassionate person as a result.
One of the most significant moments in Gong Wang’s character arc comes when he is faced with the decision of whether or not to join the outlaws in their fight against the government. At first, Gong Wang is hesitant to join the group, fearing for his own safety and reputation. However, after witnessing the government’s cruelty and corruption firsthand, he begins to see the outlaws as the only hope for real justice in the world.
Gong Wang becomes a key member of the outlaw band, using his wealth and connections to help the group in their fight against the government. He is shown to be a skilled strategist and a valuable asset to the group, despite his lack of experience as a warrior.
One of the most significant aspects of Gong Wang’s character is his ongoing struggle with his own guilt and shame. He is haunted by his past actions and is unable to fully forgive himself for the harm he has caused others. This inner turmoil is a key part of what makes Gong Wang such a compelling and relatable character, as readers can see themselves in his struggles with guilt and self-doubt.
Despite his newfound sense of humility and compassion, Gong Wang is not without his flaws. He is still shown to be capable of acts of greed and selfishness, and he is not always able to live up to his own ideals. However, his ongoing struggles with his own imperfections make him a deeply human and relatable character.
In the end, Gong Wang is remembered as one of the most complex and interesting characters in “Water Margin.” His journey from greedy and selfish merchant to humble and compassionate outlaw serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of self-reflection and personal growth. Through his story, readers are encouraged to examine their own flaws and to strive for a greater sense of empathy and compassion towards others.
