Who won in the Romance of the Three Kingdoms? This question has intrigued historians and readers for centuries. The Romance of the Three Kingdoms, a classic Chinese historical novel written by Luo Guanzhong, chronicles the political and military struggles during the Eastern Han dynasty and the Three Kingdoms period. Despite its focus on the battles and the rise and fall of various kingdoms, the ultimate winner of this tumultuous era remains a subject of debate and speculation.

The novel primarily revolves around the three kingdoms—Wei, Shu, and Wu—and their struggle for power. Each kingdom had its own strengths and weaknesses, and the story follows the lives of numerous heroes and their legendary exploits. However, determining the ultimate winner of the Romance of the Three Kingdoms is not as straightforward as it may seem.

Some argue that Wei, led by the famous Cao Cao, was the de facto winner. Cao Cao, known for his military prowess and political acumen, managed to consolidate power and establish the Wei kingdom as the dominant force in the region. He was even able to defeat the Eastern Han dynasty and become the de facto ruler of the empire. However, his son, Cao Pi, eventually deposed him and took the throne, leading to the official establishment of the Wei kingdom.

Others contend that Shu, led by the virtuous Liu Bei, should be considered the winner. Liu Bei, portrayed as a benevolent and morally upright leader, gained the support of the people and established a loyal following. Although Shu was eventually defeated by Wei, its legacy of loyalty and virtue lives on in the hearts of many. Moreover, the Shu kingdom’s contributions to the history of China cannot be overlooked.

Finally, some argue that Wu, led by the charismatic Sun Quan, deserves the title of winner. Wu, known for its naval power and strategic location, played a crucial role in the balance of power during the Three Kingdoms period. Although Wu was the smallest of the three kingdoms, it managed to maintain its independence and even expand its territory. Its influence on Chinese history and culture cannot be denied.

In conclusion, determining the winner of the Romance of the Three Kingdoms is a matter of perspective. Each kingdom had its own strengths and contributions, and the ultimate winner may depend on the criteria used to evaluate their success. While Wei may have been the dominant force in terms of political power, Shu and Wu can also be seen as winners based on their cultural, moral, and strategic achievements. The Romance of the Three Kingdoms, with its rich tapestry of characters and events, continues to captivate readers and spark debates about the true winner of this epic era.