author
Shang Lü
A leading statesman of the Ming dynasty, he rose from scholar to grand secretary and became known for his role in the imperial court during one of China’s most turbulent periods. His life offers a close look at the ambitions, risks, and politics of high office in fifteenth-century China.
1 Audiobook
六韜
by Shang Lü
About the author
Born in 1414, Shang Lü was a Chinese scholar-official of the Ming dynasty. He earned distinction through the imperial examination system and went on to serve at the highest levels of government.
He is best remembered for becoming a grand secretary in 1449, during the reign of the Jingtai Emperor. His career unfolded at a time of intense political change, and he was later removed from office after Emperor Yingzong returned to power in 1457.
Shang Lü died in 1486. Today he is mainly remembered as an important court figure whose career reflects both the prestige of scholarly achievement and the uncertainty of life at the Ming court.