Podcasts




History of Ming and Qing Dynasties 38 Ji Xiaolan's Poetry

Duration: 0:07:33

This is a story about Ji Xiaolan, an outstanding scholar and literary figure during the Qing dynasty. He was known for his wit and humor and had many stories and jokes passed down in folk tales. One time, he accompanied Emperor Qianlong on an outing and saw a white crane flying high in the sky. Qianlong asked Ji Xiaolan to compose 11 poems about it, and Ji immediately recited a couplet. However, before he could finish, Qianlong interrupted him, challenging him to continue with crossed lips.


History of Ming and Qing Dynasties. He Shen was killed

Duration: 0:11:44

The story is about He Shen, a Manchu banner person who became an important official during the Qing dynasty. He was clever and sharp-tongued and was appointed as a school officer in the palace. One day, when Emperor Qianlong was reading news about rebellious peasants in Sichuan province, he used a quote from the Analects to express his frustration. He Shen was the only one who understood the emperor's meaning and explained it to him. This impressed the emperor and He Shen was promoted to higher positions, eventually becoming a powerful minister. He received numerous prestigious appointments and awards until he was executed for alleged corruption.