Assignment: My reflections on the heroic figure Nguyen Hue in Chapter XIV of Hoang Le's Unification Chronicles
Reflecting on the heroic figure Nguyen Hue in Chapter XIV of Hoang Le's Unification Chronicles
Essay:
'Strike to lengthen the hair
Strike to darken the teeth
Strike to make them quiver without resistance
Strike to make their armor incomplete
Strike for the wise rule of Nam Quoc's hero master'
The poetic words of the heroic king in simple attire, Nguyen Hue - Quang Trung, resonate with the majestic atmosphere of the battlefield. This hero of the Tây Sơn land symbolizes a wise, enlightened, strategic, and superb military commander. The fourteenth episode in 'The Chronicles of Hoang Le' vividly depicts this royal figure.
Nguyen Hue is known as a genius in military strategy. Upon learning that the Qing army had occupied Thang Long, he quickly led his forces. However, he calmly performed a ritual before heading into battle. This demonstrates his prowess as a talented general who listens to the opinions of others.
Next, Nguyen Hue led the army to attack at the opportune moment, showcasing his heroism and foresight in choosing the right timing. Striking the enemy during Tet, when they are most relaxed and indulgent, creates vulnerabilities for our forces to exploit. The Hich poem serves to inspire and boost the morale of soldiers, playing a significant role in the spiritual aspect, motivating them to engage in the fight against the enemy. Nguyen Hue also displayed great skill in personnel management, exemplified by the use of Ngo Thoi Nham.
Nguyen Hue demonstrated his talent, compassion, heroism, and foresight in meticulously considering the well-being of the people. He didn't want the soldiers and the nation to endure the horrors of war—bloodshed, destruction, chaos, and human and property losses. Therefore, he strategically organized the military campaign to minimize human casualties.
The transition from thought to action by this hero in simple attire is evident in his recruitment strategy. For every three recruits, one would be selected, forming an elite army within a short recruitment period. Additionally, he didn't punish the army for defeats but instead encouraged their spirits, providing support when the troops faced setbacks in Tam Diep. He foresaw the nation's destiny for the next ten years and envisioned victory for the country in the future.
The battle unfolded swiftly, at dawn on the third day of Tet, the army approached and captured Ha Hoi fortress. By the fifth day of Tet, they advanced to Ngoc Hoi fortress, even reaching Thang Long, catching the enemy off guard. Neither my king, Ton Si Nghi, nor the lords of the Le dynasty were vigilant against the army clad in fabric led by Nguyen Hue. The battle concluded with an absolute victory for Nguyen Hue - Quang Trung and a humiliating defeat for the kings, lords, and the Qing invaders. Ton Si Nghi fled in haste, not even having time to mount his horse or don his armor, running northwards. The enemy scattered in chaos, falling into the Nhị Hà River, facing near annihilation. King Le hurriedly sent the queen and retinue to escape, looting the belongings and boats of the people. The scene of the enemy's disarray is vividly and meticulously portrayed.
