Top 5 Best Essays Analyzing the Significance of the Drum in "The Drum of the Old City" (Grade 10)

The "Drum of the Old City" is the name given to a short excerpt in Chapter 28, with two lines of poetry as its title:

"Behead Sái Dương, brothers reconcile,

The Drum of the Old City signals reunion."

The word 'drum' in this poem refers to a return, not the actual drum as used in the title. In the epic 'Romance of the Three Kingdoms' by Luo Guanzhong, there are many characters, but the most vivid and memorable for readers are Cao Cao, Zhuge Liang, Guan Yu, and Zhang Fei.

The excerpt from the 'Drum of the Old City' is rich in dramatic tension, filled with the atmosphere of battle and heroic spirit. The author's storytelling is simple, unembellished, and without commentary. The heart of this excerpt is encapsulated in the drumbeat of Zhang Fei. It represents the drumbeat for marching out, for retreating, for challenging the accusation of betrayal, and for reunion. The content of the excerpt conveys two main ideas: Zhang Fei's hot-headed yet noble loyalty, and the profound significance of the Drum of the Old City.

In the early stages of their struggle, the Shu Kingdom was weak, while Cao Cao's forces were strong, resulting in a series of defeats for the Shu. Lyu Bei, along with Dong Chuan, Wang Zi Fu, Guan Yu, and Zhang Fei, devised plans to oppose Cao Cao. However, their plans were exposed, and Cao Cao executed Dong Chuan before leading an army of 200,000 to attack Lyu Bei. The three brothers Lyu, Guan, and Zhang were defeated and scattered. Lyu Bei fled to Ruxian under the protection of Yuan Shao, Guan Yu was trapped at Shuo Mountain, and Zhang Fei took refuge at the Old City. During this time, Guan Yu, following advice from Zhang Liao, sent Lyu Bei’s two wives, Madame Gan and Madame Mi, to Cao Cao for protection. Although Guan Yu temporarily aligned with Cao Cao, he made it clear that if he discovered Lyu Bei’s whereabouts, he would leave immediately.

Upon learning that Lyu Bei was in the land of Yuan Shao, Guan Yu set out with the two sisters-in-law to find him. Cao Cao, desiring to keep Guan Yu for future use, refused to grant him permission to cross the border but did not send his soldiers to stop him. Guan Yu had to break through five gates, defeating Cao Cao’s generals along the way. He killed Kong Tu at Dongling Gate, Han Fu and Mang Shen at Luoyang Gate, Bian Xi at Nanshui Gate, Wang Shi at Huaiyang Gate, and Xin Ji at the banks of the Yellow River.

The excerpt tells the story of a special 'clash' between the two sworn brothers, Guan Yu and Zhang Fei, in the Old City, caused by a misunderstanding. While traveling to Ruxian in search of Lyu Bei, Guan Yu learned that Zhang Fei was at the Old City, which made him extremely happy. However, Zhang Fei, suspicious of Guan Yu’s loyalty, mistook his actions for an attempt to deceive him and deliver him to Cao Cao. Angered, Zhang Fei refused to meet Guan Yu, shouted insults, and threatened to strike. Coincidentally, at that moment, Cao Cao’s general, Sái Dương, appeared with his army, which further convinced Zhang Fei of his suspicions. Unable to clear the misunderstanding, Guan Yu vowed to kill Sái Dương to prove his sincerity. Zhang Fei made a condition: Guan Yu must behead Sái Dương after three drumbeats to earn his trust. However, as soon as Zhang Fei struck the first drumbeat, Sái Dương’s head fell to the ground. Zhang Fei’s anger subsided, but it was not until he heard from Sái Dương’s soldier, who had been captured by Guan Yu, that he finally believed him. Zhang Fei wept, prostrated himself before Guan Yu, and acknowledged his loyalty.

Zhang Fei is portrayed as direct and unyielding, with a clear-cut sense of right and wrong. He refuses to accept anything ambiguous. For Zhang Fei, the truth must be clear, and with enemies, only the sword can resolve matters. Though quick-tempered, he is not easily fooled when it comes to determining whether Guan Yu has truly betrayed him. When Guan Yu arrived, Zhang Fei, enraged, glared with wide eyes, his beard standing on end, and he shouted like thunder while waving his spear at Guan Yu.

Guan Yu’s words, “Brother, how could you forget our oath in the Peach Garden?” only further enraged Zhang Fei. Guan Yu’s intention was to remind Zhang Fei of their bond and temper his anger, but instead, it added fuel to the fire. To Zhang Fei, Guan Yu’s time with Cao Cao, accepting titles from him, was seen as an act of betrayal. He believed that if Guan Yu had betrayed their oath, he deserved to die. Neither the pleas of their wives nor the defense of Sun Can could calm Zhang Fei. Zhang Fei's rigid sense of honor left him convinced that no explanation could be sufficient.

- Wait, Brother Zhang, wait! Don’t be rash. Brother Guan didn’t know everyone’s whereabouts, so he had no choice but to stay with Cao Cao. Now he knows where Lyu Bei is and came here to help us.

Madame Mi added:

- Brother Zhang, he had no choice while at Xu Du.

Zhang Fei responded:

- You’ve been deceived. A true loyal subject would rather die than endure shame. A true man cannot serve two masters.

Guan Yu replied:

- Brother, don’t speak like that, it’s an unjust accusation!

Sun Can said:

- Guan Yu has come to find you, Commander Zhang.

Zhang Fei shouted:

- You’re lying too. He came to deceive me!

Despite the protests of the two sisters-in-law and Sun Can, Zhang Fei’s anger could not be swayed. To Zhang Fei, words could not convince him as much as actions could. When the issue was of great importance, Zhang Fei was extremely cautious. Guan Yu explained, “If I were here to capture you, I would bring an army, wouldn’t I?” Zhang Fei pointed into the distance and said, “Isn’t that an army?” The misunderstanding reached its peak when Sái Dương’s army, pursuing Guan Yu, came near. To dispel Zhang Fei’s suspicion, Guan Yu had no choice but to behead Sái Dương. Zhang Fei imposed a harsh condition: Guan Yu must behead Sái Dương after three drumbeats. Zhang Fei struck the drum, putting all his frustration and anger into it.

After just one drumbeat, Sái Dương’s head fell.

At first, it seemed the matter was resolved, but it wasn’t that simple. It wasn’t until a soldier of Sái Dương, captured by Guan Yu, explained that Sái Dương was pursuing Guan Yu to avenge his nephew that Zhang Fei finally believed him. Zhang Fei only fully understood when he heard the full story from Madame Gan and Madame Mi in the Old City. Overcome with emotion, Zhang Fei wept and bowed to Guan Yu.

Hot-headed, blunt, yet delicate and understanding—these opposing traits are both present in Zhang Fei’s character. He once used cunning tactics to capture Lyu Dai, a skilled general of Cao Cao, and Nghiêm Nhan from Ba Shu, without losing a single soldier. The coexistence of harshness and subtlety reflects the contradictions of life. Both are expressions of Zhang Fei’s absolute loyalty. In the Old City, for Zhang Fei, it was perhaps easier to kill Guan Yu than to test his loyalty. The author skillfully creates situations that allow both sides of Zhang Fei’s character to emerge in a natural and vivid way.

In the excerpt, Guan Yu shows great magnanimity, as seen in his surprise and anxiety at Zhang Fei’s behavior, his humble attempts to explain to his hot-headed brother, and his acceptance of harsh conditions to prove his loyalty. Guan Yu’s grievance is a special one: he must prove his loyalty through actions, against the heroic spirit within him, using both his skill and courage. To reach the Old City, Guan Yu had to overcome numerous challenges. The obstacles in his path were the enemy generals. But at the Old City, the most formidable barrier was his sworn brother. With his extraordinary skill, Guan Yu swiftly decapitated Sái Dương, clearing his name. The author contrasts Guan Yu’s steadfastness in his loyalty to the state with Zhang Fei’s unyielding commitment to their brotherhood.

The excerpt has two main characters, but Guan Yu serves mainly as a backdrop to highlight Zhang Fei’s character. The title "Drum of the Old City" is fitting because it evokes the atmosphere of war, but it’s not just about the primary conflict between Zhang Fei and Guan Yu—it also highlights the secondary conflict between Guan Yu and Sái Dương, which intensifies the primary struggle. The three drumbeats symbolize a court of judgment that decides whether Guan Yu is loyal or has betrayed his brother. Zhang Fei’s harsh condition for three drumbeats was not just a test of skill; it was a test of loyalty, with Sái Dương’s head representing the final judgment. Sái Dương was a capable general who had openly opposed Guan Yu and sought revenge for his nephew’s death. This challenge was not small. However, Guan Yu’s overwhelming desire to clear his name gave him the strength to perform an extraordinary feat and behead Sái Dương with astonishing speed.

Therefore, the Drum of the Old City, while set against the backdrop of a military conflict, transcends the usual sounds of war drums. It becomes a symbol of loyalty, bravery, and the impartial pursuit of justice. It can be seen as the sixth trial of the Old City, but it is a trial of spirit, an examination of loyalty. With Guan Yu’s prowess, overcoming the five physical barriers was easy, but overcoming the mental and emotional obstacle of Zhang Fei’s anger and mistrust was much more difficult. The misunderstanding between the two brothers was eventually resolved, but it highlighted an essential conflict: the irreconcilable difference between unwavering resistance and surrender, between loyalty and betrayal.

The excerpt from the Drum of the Old City is a complete story, structured like a dramatic play. This is a hallmark of classical storytelling in historical novels, where each chapter often presents a self-contained story with a clear beginning and end. The introduction presents the characters, the situation, and the context. The conflict begins with the misunderstanding between Guan Yu and Zhang Fei, then escalates with the unexpected arrival of Sái Dương. Guan Yu’s act of beheading Sái Dương is the resolution that resolves the conflict. After introducing the characters and the events, the story develops through the conflict and concludes with a decisive action.

Through the short excerpt of the Drum of the Old City, the author vividly portrays the integrity, trust, and sincerity of the bond between Guan Yu and Zhang Fei. While the novel focuses on warfare, it imparts profound lessons on ethics, conduct, and the way of the Confucian gentleman, grounded in the principles of humaneness, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, and trustworthiness.

The "Drum of the Old City" appears in Chapter 28, recounting the dramatic reunion of Guan Yu and Zhang Fei. This excerpt is captivating not only for its intense narrative but also for the symbolic detail of the drumbeat.

After the three brothers—Liu Bei, Guan Yu, and Zhang Fei—part ways due to Cao Cao's pursuit, each one follows a separate path. Liu Bei seeks refuge with Yuan Shao, Zhang Fei stays in the Old City, and Guan Yu, while initially under Cao Cao's protection to safeguard his sister-in-law, remains loyal to Liu Bei. Upon hearing news of Liu Bei's whereabouts, Guan Yu sets out to reunite with him. During his journey, Guan Yu encounters Zhang Fei. Their reunion is fraught with tension and conflict.

Upon seeing Guan Yu, Zhang Fei immediately accuses him of betrayal, stating: 'A loyal servant would rather die than serve two masters.' Thus, when Zhang Fei learns that Guan Yu is stationed at Cao Cao's camp, he reacts decisively, donning armor, mounting his horse, and leading a thousand soldiers to confront him. Despite advice from their wives and Sun Can, Zhang Fei refuses to listen, believing that the appearance of Cao Cao's soldiers means Guan Yu is trying to deceive him. The misunderstandings between them escalate, and Zhang Fei demands that Guan Yu prove his loyalty by killing a Cao Cao officer after three drumbeats.

For Zhang Fei, the drumbeat represents a test of Guan Yu's loyalty. The number of drumbeats—three—is symbolic, as Zhang Fei's hot temper could not bear waiting longer, while one beat would have been insufficient for Guan Yu to prove his sincerity. The three beats provide just enough time for Guan Yu to demonstrate his loyalty, while also reflecting Zhang Fei's hopes for his brother's innocence.

For Guan Yu, the drumbeat is a chance to clear his name. Understanding Zhang Fei's temperament, Guan Yu agrees to the challenge without hesitation, knowing that failing to prove his innocence would result in Zhang Fei never trusting him again. To prove his loyalty, Guan Yu beheads Sài Dương, a capable general of Cao Cao who had previously opposed him. Guan Yu also has a Tào soldier recount the events to Zhang Fei to further substantiate his actions. Through his quick thinking, loyalty, and bravery, Guan Yu navigates this tense situation and proves his innocence.

In the end, the drumbeat represents more than a test—it symbolizes their reunion. After hearing about the hardships Guan Yu endured to protect his sister-in-law, Zhang Fei kneels and weeps, expressing regret for his earlier actions. This moment of emotional release underscores the deep bond between the two brothers, highlighting both Zhang Fei's intense loyalty and Guan Yu's unshakeable resolve.

The artistic detail of the drumbeat not only showcases the emotional depth between the two brothers but also emphasizes Guan Yu's composure and strategic mind. This moment is a testament to the author’s mastery of narrative technique and character development.

"Cut off Sài Dương, and the brothers reconcile.

In the Old City, I reign over reunion."

The excerpt from "The Drum of the Old City" captures the intense confrontation between Zhang Fei and Guan Yu, revealing not only their personalities but also the emotional bond of brotherhood during their reunion, when all misunderstandings are resolved. The three drumbeats sounded by Zhang Fei play a pivotal role in the narrative, symbolizing the significance of the entire passage.

First, the three drumbeats serve a literal purpose, signaling the start of the battle between Guan Yu and Sài Dương, a general under Liu Bei. When Guan Yu and his two sisters-in-law arrive at the Old City, Zhang Fei, having misunderstood Guan Yu's supposed betrayal by siding with Cao Cao, leads an army to capture him. Zhang Fei then personally charges into combat with his former sworn brother, despite Guan Yu's attempts to explain.

As Zhang Fei prepares for battle, Guan Yu strives to clarify the situation, only to be interrupted by the arrival of Sài Dương's troops at the base of the city. Zhang Fei, believing that Guan Yu has brought Sài Dương to capture him, escalates the tension further.

Eventually, Zhang Fei sets an ultimatum: to prove his loyalty and innocence, Guan Yu must present Sài Dương's head after three drumbeats. Following the challenge, Guan Yu slashes Sài Dương's head off, completing the task set before him.

The drumbeats of the Old City also represent the clearing of Guan Yu's name. After exerting all his effort to protect his sisters-in-law from Cao Cao's grasp, Guan Yu arrives at the city, expecting a warm reunion with Zhang Fei. Instead, he is met with an intense battle rather than the embrace he hoped for.

Once the misunderstandings between them are revealed, Guan Yu attempts to explain himself, but Zhang Fei remains unconvinced. To prove his pure intentions, Guan Yu accepts Zhang Fei's challenge, slaying Sài Dương within the three beats. Afterward, Zhang Fei regrets his actions and seeks forgiveness, leading to their emotional reunion. For Guan Yu, the drumbeats symbolize the vindication of his loyalty and integrity.

The drumbeats also embody the reunion of the two brothers. After all the trials and misunderstandings, they finally recognize each other's unwavering loyalty. The sound of the drum symbolizes the profound emotional bond between them—brothers willing to risk their lives for one another, but unwilling to tolerate betrayal.

The "Drum of the Old City" carries rich symbolic meaning, and it is likely due to the multifaceted nature of the image that it was chosen as the title for this excerpt.

"Romance of the Three Kingdoms" is one of the Four Great Classical Novels of Chinese literature. It belongs to the genre of historical fiction and develops events and characters within a specific historical context. The value of this work lies in many aspects, especially the author's perspective on heroic figures during the turbulent times of ancient China. The novel is rich with profound lessons on life, character judgment, interpersonal relationships, politics, and military strategies. These are explored through the prolonged struggle among the three kingdoms of Wei, Shu, and Wu. One of the most remarkable themes in "Romance of the Three Kingdoms" is the bond between Liu Bei, Zhang Fei, and Guan Yu, which is both a deep brotherly relationship and a loyal master-servant relationship. The excerpt "The Drum of the Old City" is a powerful representation of this connection, offering profound insights and reflections.

The first noticeable element in the excerpt from "The Drum of the Old City" is the celebration of the strong, brotherly bond between Liu Bei, Zhang Fei, and Guan Yu. This bond is founded on mutual admiration for each other’s talents and virtues, as well as a shared vision to build a strong nation, rid the land of evil, and accomplish great deeds. To affirm their noble feelings and ideals, the three chose to swear brotherhood at the Peach Garden, drinking a cup of wine as a symbol of their commitment to each other. Despite not being born of the same parents, they vowed to live and die together, placing their trust in each other and promising to protect one another.

In the context of the feudal system, deeply influenced by Confucianism, the brotherhood between Liu Bei, Zhang Fei, and Guan Yu was held in the highest regard. It was seen as sacred, even more so than blood relations. In the excerpt from "The Drum of the Old City," we see the profound and noble nature of this bond when Guan Yu, in order to protect Liu Bei's wives, pretends to surrender to Cao Cao. Despite being in the enemy camp, Guan Yu's loyalty never wavers. He does not let the luxuries or the lavish treatment of the enemy sway him. His heart remains steadfastly loyal to his sworn brother Liu Bei, always waiting for the opportunity to escape and reunite with his brothers.

Another key message conveyed in "The Drum of the Old City" is the celebration of the heroic reunion. The meeting in this excerpt is remarkable because, although their brotherhood appeared on the verge of collapse due to misunderstandings and suspicions, it ultimately becomes even stronger. Through this reunion, the three men come to a deeper understanding of each other’s hearts. Guan Yu’s feigned surrender to Cao Cao, followed by his escape to the Old City where Zhang Fei was stationed, led to Zhang Fei’s suspicion that Guan Yu had betrayed their brotherhood and sided with the enemy. This misunderstanding brought Guan Yu an unjust reputation, making him seem disloyal to both his brothers and his lord.

Furthermore, Zhang Fei, although skilled in combat, was known for his fiery temper and rashness, unwilling to listen to explanations. However, in this situation, his doubts were justified—he believed that anyone who betrayed their comrades should be punished, even if they had once sworn brotherhood. This sets the stage for the heroic and resolute clearing of Guan Yu’s name, not only repairing their bond but also showcasing Guan Yu’s strength and virtue.

The explanation between the two brothers is resolved through a dramatic battle. When the appearance of an enemy general amid the tension between Zhang Fei and Guan Yu leads to an inevitable confrontation, the solution is a swift and powerful demonstration of loyalty. As the drumbeats echo, urging action, Guan Yu beheads Sài Dương with a single stroke, dispelling Zhang Fei’s suspicions and clearing his name. The drumbeats of the Old City thus symbolize the rallying call for war, the retreat of the forces, and the resolution of misunderstandings, ultimately representing the reunion of these two brothers. La Quán Trung’s masterful narrative design reflects the heroic spirit of the era, capturing the profound qualities of the heroic figures on horseback during the Three Kingdoms period.