Cheng Zixue (simplified: 成自学, traditional: 成自学, pinyin: Chéng Zìxué, jyutping: sing4 zi6 hok6) was a second-generation disciple of the Snowy Mountain School and junior brother of Bai Zizai, the school’s zhangmen. He led the second branch of the Snowy Mountain School and participated in the rebellion against Bai Zizai when the zhangmen descended into madness.
Biography
Early life and training
Cheng Zixue was trained in the Snowy Mountain Swordplay alongside Bai Zizai and the other second-generation disciples. He became the leader of the second branch of the Snowy Mountain School, one of five branches within the school.
Jealousy and resentment
Cheng Zixue, along with Qi Zimian, Liao Zili, and Liang Zijin, grew jealous of Bai Zizai’s superior martial arts abilities. Bai Zizai’s exceptional skills came from consuming rare substances that enhanced his neili, making him far more powerful than his junior brothers.
The rebellion
When Bai Zizai descended into madness and began killing disciples who failed to show proper respect, Cheng Zixue and the other senior disciples participated in a rebellion. They helped imprison Bai Zizai in a stone chamber, hoping to take control of the school.
However, when Bai Wanjian returned to Lingxiao City with Shi Potian (mistaken for Shi Zhongyu), Cheng Zixue and the other rebels attempted to seize power, leading to internal conflict within the school.
Resolution
After Bai Zizai recovered from his madness and acknowledged his mistakes, the rebellion was resolved. Cheng Zixue and the other rebels were likely forgiven, as Bai Zizai learned to be more humble and understanding.
Martial arts abilities
Cheng Zixue was skilled in the Snowy Mountain Swordplay, though his abilities were far inferior to Bai Zizai’s. He was considered a second-rate martial artist within the jianghu, capable but not exceptional.
Behind the scenes
Cheng Zixue represents the theme of jealousy and ambition in Ode to Gallantry. His character demonstrates how resentment and ambition can lead to rebellion and conflict, even within a martial arts school. His participation in the rebellion against Bai Zizai reflects the novel’s exploration of power, authority, and the consequences of excessive pride.