Author: Jiahui, Xu

Annotation: Li Mengyang was a leading figure of the "Seven Masters of the Early Ming Dynasty". His advocacy of the restoration of ancient poetry and prose had a profound influence on the literary circles of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Du Fu was his model in poetry. Li Mengyang's biographies come in various forms, such as epitaphs, chronologies, biographies, and historical records. Due to the differences in narrative stance and intention among the writers, it is difficult to reach a definite conclusion on whether Li Mengyang "lost his loyalty to the emperor". Although his deeds during his tenure in Jiangxi were mixed with praise and criticism, his direct remonstrances during the reigns of Emperor Hongzhi and Emperor Zhengde were highly praised. The controversy over the determination of Li Mengyang's loyalty in his biographies not only reflects the conflict between personal emotions and ethical values but also demonstrates the writers' value orientation based on loyalty and righteousness, and their recognition and maintenance of the traditional ethical system. The evaluation of Li Mengyang's loyalty and behavior in the biographies provides a historical and cultural context for us to deeply understand the spiritual connotation of his imitation of Du Fu and the restoration of ancient poetry and prose. Li Mengyang's "imitation of Du Fu" transcended the mere imitation of Du Fu's poetic style and rules, and inherited Du Fu's spirit of "poetry as history" and his noble character of loyalty to the emperor and love for the country.

Keywords: Li Mengyang, Du Fu, Biography, Loyalty

Pages in journal: 395 - 404