Zhou Tong is a fictional character in Water Margin, one of the Four Great Classical Novels of Chinese literature. Nicknamed “Little Conqueror”, he ranks 87th among the 108 Stars of Destiny and 51st among the 72 Earthly Fiends. Wikipedia
Simplified Chinese: 周通
Introduction:
“Water Margin” or “Outlaws of the Marsh” is one of the four great classical novels of Chinese literature. It tells the story of a group of outlaws who band together to fight against corrupt officials during the Song Dynasty. One of the notable characters in the novel is Zhou Tong, who is a skilled archer and teacher of the famous hero Wu Song.
Background:
Zhou Tong was born in the early years of the Song Dynasty and was a native of Huzhou, in modern-day Zhejiang province. He was a member of the Imperial Guards and became known for his archery skills, which were unrivaled at the time. Zhou Tong was also a teacher of the military, and he taught archery to the soldiers of the Imperial Guards.
Life:
In the novel, Zhou Tong is first introduced as a guest in the home of Wu Song’s brother, Wu Dalang. Wu Song is a hot-headed young man who had just returned from a long journey to the west. Zhou Tong, seeing the potential in Wu Song, offers to teach him archery. Wu Song accepts the offer, and Zhou Tong becomes his teacher.
Under Zhou Tong’s tutelage, Wu Song becomes a skilled archer and is able to shoot arrows with incredible accuracy. Wu Song becomes known as the “Pilgrim of the South” because of his skill with a bow and arrow. Zhou Tong’s teaching is a major factor in Wu Song’s later success as a hero in the novel.
Zhou Tong also plays a significant role in the plot of the novel. He is one of the outlaws who join forces to fight against corrupt officials. He participates in several battles and is known for his archery skills. Zhou Tong is also responsible for the death of one of the most notorious villains in the novel, Ximen Qing. Ximen Qing is a corrupt official who had Wu Song’s brother murdered, and Zhou Tong helps Wu Song to seek revenge.
Legacy:
Zhou Tong is remembered in Chinese culture as a skilled archer and teacher. He is often depicted in artwork, and his legacy has been passed down through the generations. The character of Zhou Tong has been adapted in various forms of media, including television dramas and movies.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Zhou Tong is a significant character in the Chinese novel “Water Margin.” He is remembered as a skilled archer and teacher who played an important role in the plot of the novel. Zhou Tong’s legacy has been passed down through the generations, and he continues to be an important figure in Chinese culture.
