Top 8 Best Essays Analyzing the Character of Zhang Fei in 'The Drum Sound of the Ancient City' (Grade 10)

La Quan Trung (1330-1400), born in the Taiyuan region of Shanxi, China, was a solitary and independent individual, often traveling and gaining deep insights into the political situation of his time. 'Romance of the Three Kingdoms' was written around the early Ming dynasty (1368-1644) and narrates the story of China being divided into three kingdoms for nearly a century during the end of the Eastern Han Dynasty (2nd-3rd century). In 184, corrupt officials and suffering people led to a series of uprisings, making the government ineffective. From this chaos emerged three main warlords: Cao Cao (Wei), Liu Bei (Shu), and Sun Quan (Wu), who created a balance of power. The story ends in 280 when the Jin Dynasty unites China. The excerpt 'The Drum Sound of the Ancient City' from Chapter 28 of this novel highlights a misunderstanding between Guan Yu and Zhang Fei, followed by a reunion and resolution, which strengthens their brotherly bond during the turbulent times. Zhang Fei is portrayed as a heroic, upright, and straightforward character, though he is quick-tempered when handling conflicts.

Zhang Fei is known for his direct and blunt personality, never hiding the truth. This is clearly reflected in his unwavering loyalty, as shown in his words to his two sisters-in-law: 'A loyal minister would rather die than face disgrace, and a true man would never serve two masters.' This leads Zhang Fei to question Guan Yu's loyalty when he appears after submitting to Cao Cao, suspecting him of betrayal and thinking he is here to deceive Zhang Fei and lead Cao Cao's forces to capture the city.

Zhang Fei accuses Guan Yu of three things: first, 'You have betrayed your oath, what face do you have to meet me?' accusing him of unfaithfulness; second, 'You abandoned our brother Cao Cao and received honors from him, now you come to deceive me, I will risk my life to stop you,' accusing him of disloyalty; and third, 'You are lying, you don’t have good intentions, you’ve come to capture me,' accusing him of being inhumane. These accusations fuel Zhang Fei's intense reaction toward Guan Yu, which involves six key actions. When he is told that Guan Yu is coming, Zhang Fei immediately suits up and leads a thousand soldiers to ambush him at the northern gate. Upon seeing Guan Yu, Zhang Fei's rage boils over—his eyes widen, his beard bristles, and he charges at him with a spear.

When Guan Yu asks for an explanation, Zhang Fei angrily retorts, accusing Guan Yu of betrayal, disloyalty, and inhumanity. Despite clarifications from Guan Yu, his two sisters-in-law, and others, Zhang Fei refuses to listen, trusting his own reasoning. When Cao Cao's troops approach, Zhang Fei, seeing the dust cloud from afar, becomes furious and prepares for another confrontation, determined to strike Guan Yu.

When Guan Yu asks to prove his loyalty, Zhang Fei agrees but sets a condition: Guan Yu must kill a Cao Cao general within three drumbeats to prove his sincerity. The time frame of three drumbeats is symbolic. Five would be too long, given Zhang Fei's impatient nature, while one would be too harsh. Three beats represent a fair challenge, allowing Guan Yu enough time to prove his loyalty while reflecting Zhang Fei's hope that his brother-in-arms is not a traitor.

After the third drumbeat, Guan Yu decapitates Sai Yang, a general of Cao Cao, leading to a deeply emotional reconciliation between the two. While Zhang Fei had shown impatience and impulsiveness earlier, in the resolution, he demonstrates a careful and thoughtful side, which is a stark contrast to his usual behavior. Only after hearing from a soldier and then from his sisters-in-law about the hardships Guan Yu faced, does Zhang Fei fully believe in his loyalty. Moved by emotion, Zhang Fei sheds tears and kneels before Guan Yu, expressing regret for his earlier rash actions and honoring his brother's strength and character.

Thus, in this excerpt, Zhang Fei is portrayed as a passionate, impatient, and straightforward character, but also one who can reflect and demonstrate deep respect for loyalty when necessary. The three drumbeats serve not only as a challenge but as a symbol of Zhang Fei's hope and trust in Guan Yu, encapsulating their brotherly bond in a time of turmoil.

"Romance of the Three Kingdoms" by Luo Guanzhong is one of the most renowned medieval novels. The story features hundreds of characters, each vividly portrayed with their own distinct personalities and appearances. Among these, we cannot forget the straightforward, resolute, and loyal Zhang Fei. The true beauty of this character is most evident in the excerpt from the 'Old City Drum'.

The novel, written at the beginning of the Ming Dynasty, narrates the tale of a fractured China, divided into three factions during the 2nd and 3rd centuries. The three main powers that emerge are those of Cao Cao, Sun Quan, and Liu Bei. The work reveals the political situation in ancient China, marked by internal strife, with the strong devouring the weak, continuous warfare, starvation, and widespread suffering. It expresses the people's desire for peace, stability, and unity.

This excerpt describes Guan Yu, along with his sister-in-law, searching for his brother Liu Bei. Along the way, they encounter Zhang Fei, who believes Guan Yu has betrayed him by surrendering to Cao Cao. This misunderstanding fuels Zhang Fei’s anger, forcing Guan Yu to undergo a trial to prove his innocence.

Zhang Fei’s character is one of bluntness, honesty, and a refusal to ever lie or act ambiguously. His strong stance is clearly shown when he says to his two sister-in-laws, and thus indirectly to Guan Yu: 'A loyal minister would rather die than live in disgrace; can a man serve two masters?' In the feudal mindset, loyalty meant serving one master, and betraying this loyalty was seen as treason. From this viewpoint, Zhang Fei evaluates Guan Yu's appearance. Guan Yu’s return after supposedly betraying the Peach Garden and surrendering to Cao Cao, the enemy of Liu Bei, makes Zhang Fei even more suspicious. Moreover, Guan Yu’s position under Cao Cao’s command, where he was granted high honors, only fuels Zhang Fei’s belief that Guan Yu’s return is a ploy to deceive him and seize the Old City. Zhang Fei’s actions, such as leading his horse, strengthen his conviction in his judgment. Based on these clear signs, Zhang Fei accuses Guan Yu three times of betrayal. He accuses Guan Yu of treachery: 'You betrayed me, how dare you face me?' Then he accuses Guan Yu of being disloyal: 'You left me, Cao Cao honored you, and now you come to deceive me. I swear to fight you to the death.' Finally, he accuses Guan Yu of being inhuman: 'You are ruthless, he has no good intentions, he came here to capture me.' These accusations stem from Zhang Fei’s straightforward nature—he only believes what he sees, a necessary trait for a loyal servant.

Given all the evidence and his observations, Zhang Fei reacts decisively. When Sun Can informs him that Guan Yu has invited him to meet, Zhang Fei 'said nothing, immediately donned his armor, mounted his horse, and took a spear, leading a thousand soldiers through a shortcut to the northern gate.' He was prepared for battle. Upon seeing Guan Yu, 'his eyes bulged, his beard stood on end, he roared like thunder, wielding his spear, and rushed at Guan Yu.' When Guan Yu inquired, 'Zhang Fei, are you calling me brother?' Zhang Fei accuses him of plotting treason. Despite the attempts of the two sister-in-laws and Sun Can to explain, Zhang Fei remains unmoved, sticking to his judgment. Especially when Cao Cao’s forces appear, Zhang Fei’s anger intensifies and he shouts: 'This is the final time.' The flag bearer, showing the military allegiance to Cao Cao, was the ultimate proof of Guan Yu’s betrayal, prompting Zhang Fei to charge forward with his spear to strike at Guan Yu.

When Guan Yu requests to prove his loyalty by decapitating a Cao Cao general, Zhang Fei agrees, but sets a challenge: the head must be severed within three drumbeats. This was a huge test for Guan Yu, both to prove his innocence and showcase his prowess. Why three drumbeats and not five? Five would be too long and inconsistent with Zhang Fei’s impetuous nature, while three strikes would demonstrate Guan Yu’s skill without belittling him. Additionally, this challenge indirectly expresses Zhang Fei’s hope that Guan Yu remains as loyal as ever.

Guan Yu, in the end, does not disappoint Zhang Fei. In three drumbeats, he defeats Cao Cao’s general, thereby solidifying his loyalty. This marks the beginning of their reconciliation. Initially, Zhang Fei was hot-headed and rash, but by now he had become much more cautious, a contrast to his usual impulsive self. His actions reflect his deep concern for their brotherhood, needing time to reaffirm Guan Yu’s loyalty. In fact, before Guan Yu decapitates Sài Dương, Zhang Fei had overheard Guan Yu talking to him, 'Kill my nephew.' This suggests that Sài Dương was not aligned with Cao Cao, but Zhang Fei still had doubts. After seeing Guan Yu interrogate a soldier holding Cao Cao’s flag, Zhang Fei finally believes. Following this, a conversation between the two sister-in-laws about the hardships Guan Yu endured further convinces Zhang Fei. His tears are a clear sign of his feelings for Guan Yu.

Characters in the novel are primarily developed through dialogue and action, revealing their thoughts and personalities. Zhang Fei, despite his fiery temperament, is deeply emotional and values relationships. The storyline is like a gripping play, full of suspense, drawing readers in. The key details, particularly the drumbeats, symbolize both a challenge and a vindication.

With its engaging plot and memorable moments, this excerpt highlights Zhang Fei’s straightforward nature, which is a hallmark of his character. Moreover, it celebrates the profound bond of loyalty, a clear manifestation of Zhang Fei’s unwavering commitment to his brothers.

The "Romance of the Three Kingdoms" by Luo Guanzhong is one of the most well-known historical novels of the medieval period. The story features a large cast of characters, each with their distinct personality and appearance. Among these characters, Zhang Fei stands out as a brave, direct, and loyal figure. His true nature is best captured in the excerpt from the "Old City Drum".

This work, published during the early Ming Dynasty, recounts the tumultuous period of the Three Kingdoms (3rd century), where China was divided into three factions: Cao Cao’s power, Sun Quan’s kingdom, and Liu Bei’s realm. The novel highlights the political instability and incessant warfare, showing the suffering of the common people and their desire for peace and unity.

This excerpt describes the moment when Guan Yu, accompanied by his sister-in-law, sets out to find his brother, Liu Bei. Along the way, they encounter Zhang Fei, who accuses Guan Yu of betrayal, having abandoned his brother and aligned with Cao Cao, infuriating Zhang Fei. Guan Yu must then prove his loyalty through a series of challenges.

Zhang Fei’s character is marked by his straightforwardness and honesty. He never speaks in riddles or uses evasive language. His firm stance is clearly expressed when he speaks to his two sisters-in-law, addressing his message to Guan Yu: "A loyal servant would rather die than live in disgrace. How could a man serve two masters?" In feudal philosophy, a loyal subject serves only one master; to serve two is to betray one’s loyalty. From this perspective, Zhang Fei scrutinizes Guan Yu’s actions. After seemingly abandoning Liu Bei and submitting to Cao Cao, Zhang Fei believes that Guan Yu’s return is nothing but a deception, an attempt to seize the Old City. Zhang Fei’s confidence is bolstered when he leads his soldiers into battle, convinced of his conclusions. Faced with this apparent evidence, Zhang Fei accuses Guan Yu three times. First, he condemns Guan Yu for ingratitude: "You’ve betrayed me, how dare you face me again?" Then, he accuses him of disloyalty: "You abandoned your brother, aligned with Cao Cao, received titles, and now you come to deceive me! I will not forgive you." Finally, he condemns him as a heartless traitor: "You’re lying, you’ve no good intentions. You’re here to trap me." These accusations reflect Zhang Fei’s character—a man who values truth and only believes what he sees. This is the hallmark of a loyal subject.

The moment when Guan Yu kills Zhao Yang may not have been difficult, but it is highly symbolic. It is the only way for Guan Yu to clear his name. This act represents Zhang Fei’s unwavering commitment to justice and his clear-cut sense of right and wrong. The author has crafted a vivid scenario to praise the deep brotherhood of Liu, Guan, and Zhang, while emphasizing Zhang Fei’s straightforward nature and Guan Yu’s righteousness.

Both Zhang Fei and Guan Yu are exemplary generals of the Shu kingdom, embodying its ideals. Liu Bei and the Shu state represent the author’s vision of an ideal ruler and a just, compassionate government.

Through its folk narrative style and simplified storylines, "Romance of the Three Kingdoms" has set the standard for storytelling. It is a classic of ancient Chinese literature, excelling both in content and artistic execution. The novel’s success lies not only in its immense value as a work of military strategy, history, and morality, but also in the skillful development of its characters. The iconic characters from the novel have become ingrained in Eastern culture and are familiar to readers. Unlike modern literature, which often delves into the psychological aspects of characters, Luo Guanzhong develops his characters through their actions, gestures, and decisions. In doing so, he creates a rich world of characters, capturing a complex historical period spanning nearly two centuries. Through this, the author offers a critique of the society of his time, particularly the Ming and Qing Dynasties. In just this one excerpt from the "Old City Drum," the characters of Guan Yu and Zhang Fei emerge as paragons of loyalty, honesty, and brotherhood, showcasing the Confucian ideals of Benevolence, Righteousness, Propriety, Wisdom, and Trustworthiness.

When analyzing the character of Zhang Fei in the excerpt from the "Old City Drum" in the novel *Romance of the Three Kingdoms*, one cannot ignore the author Luo Guanzhong. Born at the end of the Yuan dynasty and passing at the dawn of the Ming dynasty, Luo Guanzhong had a talent for literature, particularly in using elegant wording and parallelism. He was also skilled in writing various forms of musical dramas, but he is best remembered as a novelist.

The excerpt from *Old City Drum* revolves around Zhang Fei's encounter with Guan Yu as they search for Liu Bei together with their sister-in-law. At this point, Zhang Fei believes that Guan Yu has broken the oath made between the three brothers by abandoning Liu Bei and aligning with Cao Cao. Although it is merely suspicion, this enrages Zhang Fei. He forces Guan Yu to prove his innocence by slaying Cao Cao’s generals through three rounds of drums. In the following passage, we will explore Zhang Fei’s emotional journey and the depiction of his character.

Anyone familiar with *Romance of the Three Kingdoms* will know Zhang Fei as a hero with a straightforward and forthright personality. He never speaks in ambiguous terms or behaves dishonestly. Therefore, when analyzing Zhang Fei’s character in this excerpt, we can clearly see this aspect. According to Luo Guanzhong, Zhang Fei’s views and beliefs are crystal clear, as demonstrated by his statement to his two sisters-in-law, which is also a subtle reference to Guan Yu: "A loyal minister would rather die than suffer shame; how can a true man serve two masters?"

In ancient beliefs, a loyal minister was someone who would only serve one ruler, dedicating their life to them without question. Anyone who served two masters was considered a traitor. From this reasoning, Zhang Fei concluded that Guan Yu’s sudden return was suspicious. It was rumored that Guan Yu had joined Cao Cao, Liu Bei’s enemy, and even received honors from him. This suggested that Guan Yu had betrayed Liu Bei. As a result, Zhang Fei believed that Guan Yu's return was part of a plan to deceive him and take control of the Old City. In a fit of rage, upon hearing that Guan Yu was coming, Zhang Fei immediately led troops into battle rather than welcoming him: "Upon hearing this, Zhang Fei said nothing, donned his armor, and mounted his horse with his spear in hand..."

As a hot-tempered individual, Zhang Fei quickly acted on his suspicions, without a word to Guan Yu: "Zhang Fei’s eyes bulged, his whiskers stood up, and he roared like thunder, charging at Guan Yu with his spear raised."

True to his nature, Zhang Fei did not waste words but immediately accused Guan Yu with three serious charges. First, Zhang Fei accused Guan Yu of ingratitude and betrayal: "You’ve been unfaithful; how dare you show your face to me?" No longer calling him brother, Zhang Fei used direct language, signaling a complete break in their relationship. This demonstrated Zhang Fei’s decisive and firm character. Next, Zhang Fei accused Guan Yu of disloyalty: "You abandoned our brother, sided with Cao Cao, and now you come here to deceive me. I will settle this with you once and for all!" Lastly, Zhang Fei condemned Guan Yu for being inhumane: "You lie! You’re not a good person. You came here to trap me!" These accusations stemmed from Zhang Fei’s direct, honest nature, which is characteristic of a loyal subject who believes only in what they can see and witness.

By analyzing Zhang Fei’s character up to this point, we begin to understand his nature. Zhang Fei is indeed straightforward, but also impulsive. His mind and heart are both quick to act, and although Guan Yu had been defended by their two sisters-in-law and Sun Quan, Zhang Fei stubbornly refused to listen. He disregarded others’ opinions and clung to his own logic. Especially when Cao Cao’s forces arrived with banners, Zhang Fei’s anger flared even more: "Are you still denying it?"

At this point, Zhang Fei’s anger reaches its peak. In a fit of rage, he shouted, "I will strike you down!" As he charged, this action illustrates that while the character is based on real-life personality traits, there is still a degree of idealization typical in medieval literature. Zhang Fei’s actions were not just about personal psychology but were meant to symbolize his class ideals. For Zhang Fei, loyalty to his brothers was everything. Any suspicion of betrayal was unacceptable. For heroes of chaotic times like him, loyalty was the only guiding principle, and all conflicts should be resolved based on communal benefit.

When Cao Cao’s general appeared, it further fueled Zhang Fei’s fury, but this moment also allowed Guan Yu to prove his loyalty. Zhang Fei tested Guan Yu’s loyalty by demanding that he kill Cao Cao’s general in three rounds of drums. This not only reinforced Guan Yu’s vow but also revealed Zhang Fei’s decisive and resolute attitude. It was a reflection of the heroic spirit of the times – no lengthy words, just actions to prove one's worth.

In analyzing Zhang Fei’s character, we see that Guan Yu accepted the challenge. With his martial prowess and desire to prove his innocence, Guan Yu swiftly defeated Cao Cao’s general in mere moments. At this point, some readers may wonder why Zhang Fei only demanded three rounds, not five. Each reader may have their own interpretation, but three rounds likely suited Zhang Fei’s impulsive and quick-tempered nature. Additionally, if the test took too long, it might have diminished Guan Yu’s abilities. Through this, Zhang Fei subtly showed his hopes that Guan Yu would remain faithful to their old vow made in the Peach Garden.

True to his loyalty, Guan Yu did not disappoint Zhang Fei. In just three rounds, he killed Cao Cao’s general, resolving the tension between the two. Initially, Zhang Fei was full of anger, but after witnessing Guan Yu’s loyalty, he became more cautious and thoughtful. This marked a significant shift in his character. After confirming Guan Yu’s loyalty through his actions, Zhang Fei was moved by the hardships and dangers Guan Yu had endured. Zhang Fei "shed tears" as he heard the story. When a man cries, it signifies feelings of helplessness, regret, and admiration. Here, the tears reflected all three emotions: regret for doubting Guan Yu, helplessness for not being able to help him, and admiration for Guan Yu’s integrity and skill.

Through Zhang Fei’s character, readers can observe that Luo Guanzhong rarely described the appearance of his characters. Instead, he focused on depicting characters through dialogue and actions. Zhang Fei is a prime example. Through his words and actions, we clearly understand his thoughts and personality. He is a fiery, straightforward person who lives fully according to his principles of loyalty and righteousness.

"Romance of the Three Kingdoms" by Luo Guanzhong is one of the most famous historical novels from the medieval era. The work features hundreds of characters, each vividly portrayed with their own distinct personalities and appearances. Among these, one character who stands out is Zhang Fei, known for his straightforwardness, boldness, and loyalty. His character is most clearly showcased in the excerpt from 'The Drum of the Old City'.

The novel was written at the beginning of the Ming Dynasty and tells the story of a divided China during the late Eastern Han period, spanning from the 2nd to the 3rd century. The work highlights the rise of three major factions: Cao Cao’s, Sun Quan’s, and Liu Bei’s. It portrays a chaotic political landscape marked by continuous warfare, with powerful factions swallowing the weaker ones, causing widespread suffering and unrest among the people. The novel expresses the people’s desire for peace, stability, and unity.

This excerpt recounts the moment when Guan Yu and his sister-in-law search for Liu Bei, and during their journey, they encounter Zhang Fei. Zhang Fei, believing that Guan Yu betrayed their brotherhood by joining Cao Cao, becomes enraged. Guan Yu must undergo a test to prove his loyalty.

Zhang Fei’s character is defined by his directness and honesty, never resorting to deception or ambiguity. This principle is clearly demonstrated in his words to his two sisters-in-law, which also serve as a message to Guan Yu: “A loyal minister would rather die than endure shame. A true hero would never serve two masters.” In the feudal mindset, a loyal subject serves only one master and would sacrifice everything for that one ruler. Anyone who serves two masters is considered a traitor. Based on this logic, Zhang Fei judges Guan Yu’s actions. Guan Yu returns after abandoning their oath of brotherhood in the Peach Garden, having surrendered to Cao Cao, Liu Bei’s archenemy. Moreover, Guan Yu had been rewarded by Cao Cao, which confirmed to Zhang Fei that Guan Yu had betrayed them. This belief is further reinforced when Zhang Fei leads his troops to confront Guan Yu. Confronted with clear evidence, Zhang Fei accuses Guan Yu three times: first for being ungrateful and betraying their brotherhood: “You’ve betrayed me, how can you face me now?”; second for being disloyal: “You abandoned our brother, joined Cao Cao, and now you’re here to deceive me. I’ll fight you to the death!”; and finally, for being immoral: “You’re a liar; you have ill intentions. You’ve come here to capture me!” These accusations stem from Zhang Fei’s straightforwardness and his belief in only what he can see with his own eyes, a quality fitting for a loyal minister.

Based on his deductions and what he witnessed, Zhang Fei reacts violently to Guan Yu. When Sun Quan sends a message asking Zhang Fei to meet Guan Yu, Zhang Fei immediately dons his armor, grabs his spear, and leads a thousand soldiers toward the northern gate, prepared for battle. Upon seeing Guan Yu, his eyes bulging, his whiskers bristling, he roars like thunder and charges at Guan Yu with his spear. Guan Yu asks why, and Zhang Fei harshly responds, calling him a traitor. Even though Guan Yu is defended by the two sisters-in-law and Sun Quan, Zhang Fei ignores all their explanations, maintaining his stance. When Cao Cao’s troops approach with their banners, Zhang Fei becomes even more furious, shouting: “Are you still going to deny it?” The sight of the banners serves as the final proof of Guan Yu’s betrayal, prompting Zhang Fei to charge forward, spear in hand, to strike at Guan Yu.

Guan Yu then agrees to prove his loyalty by beheading a general from Cao Cao’s army. Zhang Fei accepts but sets the condition that Guan Yu must do this within three drumbeats. This is a significant challenge for Guan Yu, as it will prove both his loyalty and his martial prowess. But why only three drumbeats and not five? Five would have been too long, not matching Zhang Fei’s impatient, impulsive nature. Moreover, five would have diminished Guan Yu’s martial skills. Therefore, three drumbeats are the perfect duration. At the same time, by setting this condition, Zhang Fei subtly expresses his hope that Guan Yu remains loyal to their oath and will not betray him.

Guan Yu does not disappoint. In the three drumbeats, he kills Cao Cao’s general, proving his loyalty. This marks the beginning of reconciliation. Initially, Zhang Fei was furious and impulsive, but now, having witnessed Guan Yu’s actions, he becomes more cautious, which contrasts with his usual hot-headedness. Zhang Fei’s change in demeanor is due to his fear that their brotherhood might be damaged. He needed time to confirm Guan Yu’s loyalty. Before Guan Yu beheaded Sai Yang, Zhang Fei had seen Guan Yu’s conversation with Sai Yang, where Guan Yu stated “Kill my nephew,” which suggested Sai Yang was not loyal to Cao Cao, but Zhang Fei still had doubts. After Guan Yu captured a soldier carrying Cao Cao’s flag and questioned him, Zhang Fei finally believes in his brother’s loyalty. This is further affirmed when the two sisters-in-law recount the hardships and dangers Guan Yu endured, and Zhang Fei finally understands. Zhang Fei’s tears show his deep emotions, revealing both regret for doubting Guan Yu and admiration for his brother’s loyalty and virtue.

The characters in the novel are primarily developed through dialogue and action, which reveal their thoughts and personalities. Zhang Fei, with his bold, impulsive nature, is also portrayed as deeply loyal and caring. The narrative unfolds like a dramatic play, drawing readers in with its tension and excitement. The key details, especially the challenge involving the drumbeats, serve to highlight Zhang Fei’s character and the theme of loyalty.

Through this excerpt, the novel not only reveals Zhang Fei’s straightforward and bold nature but also praises the noble, profound loyalty he embodies. This is a distinctive example of the deep bonds of brotherhood and loyalty in the story.

The Ming and Qing dynasties mark the final phase of classical Chinese literature's development. This period was a time of great diversity and artistic success for Chinese literature, especially with the rise of the novel. The classical Chinese novel is a long narrative, told in chapters with a chronological sequence of events. Notable examples of these literary peaks, which are still well-known today, include *Journey to the West*, *Water Margin*, *Romance of the Three Kingdoms*, and *Dream of the Red Chamber*. Among these, *Romance of the Three Kingdoms* reflects a turbulent era in Chinese history during the Three Kingdoms period. Written by Luo Guanzhong, the novel is based on three primary sources: historical records (the *Records of the Three Kingdoms* by Chen Shou of the Jin dynasty and *Records of the Three Kingdoms* by Cui Tong of the Northern and Southern dynasties), folklore, and Yuan dynasty drama and scripts (the *Romance of the Three Kingdoms* script). Therefore, the work is both a historical chronicle and a literary masterpiece.

The story of the *Drum of the Old City* can be summed up in the phrase: "Behead Sài Dương, brothers reconcile; the drum beats, the family reunites." This excerpt showcases the distinctive narrative techniques and character development in *Romance of the Three Kingdoms*. The unique personalities of the two characters, Guan Yu and Zhang Fei, are evident here. Guan Yu, who is usually quite self-assured and rarely subservient, adopts a more humble and flexible attitude in this special case when faced with Zhang Fei's anger. In this scene, Guan Yu appears both as a mighty warrior capable of beheading enemies but also as a wise and measured brother. On the other hand, Zhang Fei, known for his impulsive and straightforward nature, becomes more cautious due to his suspicions. These contrasting traits create a multi-faceted portrayal of their characters. Regardless of their differences, each character in *Romance of the Three Kingdoms* has a distinct, inimitable personality. This excerpt highlights Guan Yu's extraordinary abilities, Zhang Fei's unwavering honesty, and above all, the deep loyalty between the two.

Zhang Fei is famous for being straightforward, hot-tempered, and truthful. Therefore, arguments and justifications hold little weight with him. A person like Zhang Fei could never accept or understand the complexities behind Guan Yu's alliance with Cao Cao. Upon hearing that Guan Yu had arrived at the Old City, Zhang Fei reacted vehemently: "After hearing this, Fei immediately donned his armor, grabbed his spear, and mounted his horse..." Upon seeing Guan Yu, he didn't utter a word. "Zhang Fei's eyes bulged, his mustache stood up, he roared like thunder, and brandished his spear, rushing towards Guan Yu."

Without any commentary or psychological descriptions, Zhang Fei's anger and impulsiveness are conveyed through his actions, expressions, and words. His reaction underscores his honesty, his clear-cut sense of right and wrong. Guan Yu’s defense, along with the explanations from Lady Gan and Lady Mi, only fueled the fire. Zhang Fei, distrustful of explanations, only believes in what he sees. His fury was stoked further when he saw the troops approaching. Zhang Fei's anger reached its peak as he brandished his spear, charging towards Guan Yu. In classical Chinese literature, characters have very distinct traits, yet they still reflect the idealized conventions of the time. The actions of the characters often symbolize their personalities and class ideologies, not necessarily adhering to psychological logic. The bond of brotherhood is meaningless if one is suspected of betrayal.

The only guiding principle is the ideal of loyalty, and conflicts are resolved on the basis of collective interest. Guan Yu and Zhang Fei were reconciled once Sài Dương’s head fell to the ground. Zhang Fei urgently struck the drum to summon Guan Yu, and "tears fell as he knelt and begged Vân Trường" when the doubts were cleared. Zhang Fei's demand for Guan Yu to behead Sài Dương within three drumbeats demonstrated his firm resolve. This moment is one of the most iconic in the *Romance of the Three Kingdoms*. Zhang Fei knew of Guan Yu's remarkable skills; Guan Yu had once beheaded the skilled general Hua Xiong and returned to camp while his wine was still warm. For Guan Yu to defeat Sài Dương was not difficult, but it was significant as it served as the only way to prove his innocence. Although the act was not challenging, it symbolized Zhang Fei's decisive nature and black-and-white view of loyalty. The author crafts a vivid scenario to praise the deep brotherly bond between Liu Bei, Guan Yu, and Zhang Fei, while also showcasing Zhang Fei’s straightforward character and Guan Yu’s virtue.

Both Zhang Fei and Guan Yu are celebrated generals of the Shu Han state, embodying the ideals of that kingdom. Liu Bei and the Shu state represent the author’s aspiration for a wise ruler, a just and humane dynasty.

Through its folk-style storytelling and simplification of events within a complex narrative, *Romance of the Three Kingdoms* has reached the pinnacle of narrative art. It stands as a quintessential classical novel in terms of both content and artistry. The work’s success is due not only to its military, historical, and moral values but also to its skillful creation of a vibrant world of characters. The iconic figures from *Romance of the Three Kingdoms* have become deeply embedded in Eastern culture and the collective consciousness of readers. Rather than delving into the psychological development of characters like modern novels, Luo Guanzhong builds character through actions and gestures with universal meanings. In doing so, he constructs a world of diverse characters that effectively depicts a century-long period of Chinese history, full of upheaval. Through this, the author subtly conveys his reflections and views on the Ming-Qing society.

In just one excerpt from *The Drum of the Old City*, the characters of Guan Yu and Zhang Fei emerge as shining examples of loyalty, honesty, and the sincerity of brotherly love. While the novel centers on military battles, *Romance of the Three Kingdoms* also delivers many valuable lessons about moral character, ethics, and proper conduct according to the Confucian ideals of *Ren*, *Li*, *Yi*, *Zhi*, and *Xin* (benevolence, propriety, righteousness, wisdom, and trustworthiness) in Eastern gentlemanly behavior.

*Romance of the Three Kingdoms* is a work that authentically reflects the turbulent era of Chinese history, marked by the intense power struggles of the Three Kingdoms. The excerpt from 'Drum of the Old City' is one of the most striking sections, illustrating the intense confrontation between Zhang Fei and Guan Yu—two brothers who had sworn an oath of loyalty in the Peach Garden. When the drum sounds, all past grievances are resolved, and the reader is once again moved by their unbreakable bond of brotherhood, which remains steadfast even after enduring fierce trials. This passage excels in portraying the distinct characteristics of each character, particularly Zhang Fei, who is depicted with a hot-tempered, direct nature and unwavering loyalty.

Zhang Fei was a skilled general under the command of Liu Bei, and the author, Luo Guanzhong, describes him with words like: '...his voice was as loud as thunder, as swift as a horse, with a tiger's whiskers, a leopard's head, and bulging eyes.' Known for his straightforward nature, Zhang Fei was not one to bow down to the enemy, even if it meant death. He epitomized the principle of loyalty and honor. However, his fiery temperament made him intolerant of betrayal, which led him to suspect Guan Yu's loyalty and triggered a tense confrontation at the old city gates.

To highlight Zhang Fei's quick temper and directness, there is a popular saying in folklore: 'Hot-headed like Zhang Fei, suspicious like Cao Cao.' This clearly shows how Zhang Fei's fiery and impulsive nature became ingrained in popular imagination. As a loyal warrior who valued the principle of loyalty, Zhang Fei could not accept betrayal. He embodied the heroic ideals of the chaotic times, holding fast to the belief that 'A loyal minister would rather die than endure dishonor.' His unwavering loyalty to Liu Bei was evident when he confronted Guan Yu, believing that his sworn brother had betrayed their bond by aligning with Cao Cao. When Zhang Fei saw Guan Yu approach the city, he vowed, 'This time, I will fight to the death with you.' In the name of loyalty, Zhang Fei temporarily set aside personal feelings and treated Guan Yu as an enemy who betrayed their brotherhood for personal gain.

Zhang Fei’s honest yet impulsive nature led him to take immediate action upon hearing that Guan Yu and the two sisters-in-law had arrived at the city. Without hesitation, he donned his armor, mounted his horse, and rode out to capture Guan Yu. His aggressive and furious demeanor was clear as he shouted like thunder, his eyes wide and his whiskers bristling, wielding a spear to attack Guan Yu. However, Zhang Fei’s impulsiveness also had its drawbacks. His inability to assess the situation and his stubbornness prevented him from trusting Guan Yu’s explanations.

Eventually, when Sài Dương arrived with an army, Zhang Fei made a decisive demand: in three drumbeats, Guan Yu must prove his innocence by beheading Sài Dương. After three drumbeats, Guan Yu successfully struck down Sài Dương. However, Zhang Fei still hesitated to fully trust him, only realizing his mistake when the two sisters-in-law and a loyal soldier recounted the events. Zhang Fei then understood that he had misjudged Guan Yu.

Filled with regret, Zhang Fei knelt and wept, asking for Guan Yu’s forgiveness. In the end, we see that Zhang Fei, despite his impulsive and blunt nature, is a man of integrity and strong emotions. He was ready to fight his brother in anger, but also capable of kneeling in apology when he recognized his mistake.

'Behead Sài Dương, and let the brothers reconcile. The drum of the old city signals the return of loyalty and brotherhood.'

Through this passage from 'Drum of the Old City,' we see Zhang Fei as a fiery, direct, and loyal man who values brotherhood above all, despising betrayal above all else.