The Legend of Meng Jiang

Emperor's Grand Vision

• Objective: The emperor planned to build a great wall spanning thousands of kilometers to protect his empire and ensure his power.
• Execution: Men from across China were conscripted to leave their homes and work on the wall's construction.

The Mengs and Jiangs

• Setting: Families nestled in the foothills of a remote mountain.
• Incident: A gourd grew across the Meng-Jiang fence and revealed a beautiful baby inside when split, named Meng Jiang.

Meng Jiang's Virtuous Life

• Meng Jiang grew up to be virtuous and brought joy to life.
• She took care of her elderly parents and their land.

Encounter with Fan Xiliang

• Meeting: Meng Jiang found Fan Xiliang hiding from soldiers conscripting men for the emperor's wall.
• Marriage: They connected instantly and married.

Fan Xiliang's Capture

• Event: Fan Xiliang was captured by the emperor’s soldiers.
• Meng Jiang's Response: Undertook a perilous journey to find him.

Heartbreaking Discovery

• Outcome: Upon reaching the construction site, Meng Jiang learned Fan Xiliang had died and was buried under the wall.
• Reaction: Her tears caused portions of the wall to crumble.

Confrontation with the Emperor

• Emperor's Reaction: Ordered her capture for sabotaging his project.
• Proposal: Suggested Meng Jiang become his concubine.

Meng Jiang's Defiance

• Conditions: Agreed to the proposal if Fan Xiliang received a grand funeral with the emperor in mourning attire.
• Final Act: Meng Jiang cast herself into the water, choosing defiance over submission.

Legacy

• Symbol: Her tears symbolize virtue and defiance, flowing on as a reminder of her impact.