Chu Shi Biao (Memorial on Sending Out the Troops)

Work Guide

Background:
In the fifth year of the Jianxing era of Shu Han, Zhuge Liang submitted this memorial to the Young Lord Liu Shan before embarking on the Northern Expedition. It reflects on the late Emperor's favor, the current state of Shu Han, and the duties of a minister. There is a later work titled "Hou Chu Shi Biao" (Later Memorial), which differs in terms of authorship authenticity and textual issues; the work commonly referred to in textbooks as "Chu Shi Biao" usually refers to this "Qian Chu Shi Biao" (Former Memorial).

Synopsis:
The article first advises the Young Lord to open channels for speech, be strict and fair in rewards and punishments, and stay close to virtuous officials while distancing from sycophants. It then lists capable talents in the palace and the military. The final section recounts being visited three times by Liu Bei and the deathbed entrustment, explaining the responsibility of this expedition.

Literary Features:
The text layers political advice, a roster of talents, and personal declarations of loyalty, transitioning from rational persuasion to emotional self-expression. Vernacular annotations should clarify the recipient of the memorial, official titles, pronouns, and references to the "Late Emperor," while avoiding the use of plots from "Romance of the Three Kingdoms" to explain historical text.

Film and Television Adaptations

No film or television adaptations are currently listed.

Versions and Translations

Primary Version:
This version uses "Chu Shi Biao" as the standard title, with the author, editor, or traditional attribution recorded as "Zhuge Liang." The scope of the text is the complete single chapter. Common search titles include: Qian Chu Shi Biao; Chu Shi Biao; Memorial on Sending Out the Troops.

Reading Suggestions:
The guide for "Chu Shi Biao" focuses on vernacular annotations and access to the full text. When reading this memorial or classical prose, one should distinguish between the original text, historical commentaries, modern vernacular translations, and textbook excerpts. For citations, refer back to the complete text and specific chapters.

Author and Work

Zhuge Liang managed the military and political affairs of Shu Han as Chancellor. This memorial presents his understanding of the division of labor between monarch and minister and the continuity of the regime. The work later became a model for writing about loyalty, though its historical evaluation and literary impact should be discussed separately.