A Top Scholar From A Humble Background.

Summary

Ma Wensheng, the Minister of War, confronted Xu Qiong over his dismissive view of historical records during a court discussion about compiling the "Great Ming Code." Xu argued that certain historical records were worthless, while Ma insisted on the importance of documenting all laws since the Ming Dynasty's founding. Jiao Fang defended Xu, citing difficulties in compiling records due to past rebellions. Li Dong Yang proposed that the Hanlin Academy compile records from the Hongwu period, avoiding political controversies. The meeting ended without a clear resolution, and officials speculated about the memorial's authorship during a subsequent lunch. Shen Xi, a scholar at the Hanlin Academy, reflected on his role in the political dynamics at play, recognizing he was being used as a pawn by Emperor Hongzhi.

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