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The Legend of the Condor Heroes
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The Legend of the Condor Heroes

The Legend of the Condor Heroes (simplified: 射雕英雄传, traditional: 射鵰英雄傳, pinyin: Shè Diāo Yīngxióng Zhuàn) is a landmark wuxia novel by Jin Yong.

First serialised in the Hong Kong Commercial Daily1 from 1 January 1957 to 19 May 1959, it is widely regarded as one of the most influential and beloved works in the wuxia genre. Jin Yong’s masterful storytelling and intricate plot have captivated readers for generations, making it a cornerstone of Chinese popular culture.

It is the first instalment of the Condor Trilogy and has undergone two revisions. The Second Edition was released in December 1975 and the Third Edition was published in June 2002.

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Title translation

Main article: The Legend of the Condor Heroes title translation

The original Chinese title of the novel presents some interesting challenges for translation, as it contains nuances that are difficult to capture succinctly in English.

The most widely accepted English translation is The Legend of the Condor Heroes. However, The Legend of the Eagle-shooting Heroes would be a more accurate translation of the title.

The two species of condors, the Andean condor and the Californian condor, are native to the Americas. The 雕 (diāo) in the title and novel most likely refer to the golden eagle found in Mongolia.

Besides diao, the title uses the term 射雕 (shèdiāo), which literally means eagle-shooting. From historical and ancient literature context, this is used to describe heroic persons with remarkable martial prowess.

Plot

Background

The Legend of the Condor Heroes takes place during a tumultuous period when the Southern Song dynasty2 faced threats from both the Jurchen-led3 Jin Dynasty4 in the north and the rising Mongol Empire.5

The story begins in 1199 during the Qingyuan era of Emperor Ningzong and extends through to the death of Genghis Khan in 1227. This historical backdrop serves to highlight the struggles of the Southern Song in resisting two powerful enemies.

This historical setting provides a rich tapestry of political intrigue, cultural conflict, and martial arts lore that forms the foundation of the narrative. Jin Yong meticulously researched this period, blending historical facts with fictional elements to create a vivid and immersive world.

Summary

The novel’s epic narrative spans several decades and follows multiple interconnected storylines. The narrative’s complexity is heightened by its integration of historical events with wuxia fiction.

The story begins with the meeting of three men—Qiu Chuji of the Quanzhen School, and the patriotic heroes Guo Xiaotian and Yang Tiexin—in the small village of Ox Village in Jiangnan. After killing the traitor Wang Daoqian, Qiu is pursued by government troops and takes refuge in the village.

He names the unborn children of both men “Jing” and “Kang” respectively, leaving behind a pair of short swords as tokens. The names refer to the Jingkang Incident,6 when the Jin dynasty captured the Song capital of Kaifeng, taking Emperor Qinzong and Emperor Huizong captive.

This traumatic event marked the end of the Northern Song dynasty7 and forced the Song court to flee south, establishing the Southern Song dynasty. By naming the children after this national humiliation, Qiu Chuji symbolically tasks them with avenging this historical shame. The names serve as a constant reminder of the Han Chinese people’s suffering under foreign rule and their desire for redemption.

The tragic turn of events begins when Yang’s wife Bao Xiruo secretly saves a wounded soldier, unaware that he is the Jin prince Wanyan Honglie. The prince becomes infatuated with her, leading to a series of tragic events that result in Guo Xiaotian’s death and Yang Tiexin’s disappearance.

Guo Xiaotian’s pregnant wife, Li Ping, is captured by government official Duan Tiande but manages to escape to the Mongolian steppes, while Bao Xiruo is tricked into marrying Wanyan Honglie.

As Guo Jing navigates the complex world of martial arts and political intrigue, he encounters Huang Rong, the clever and mischievous daughter of the enigmatic Huang Yaoshi, leader of the Peach Blossom Island. Their romance forms a central thread in the story, with their complementary personalities—Guo Jing’s straightforwardness and Huang Rong’s cleverness—creating a dynamic duo that faces numerous challenges together.

The novel also explores the tragic tale of Yang Kang, Guo Jing’s sworn brother who chooses a path of ambition and personal gain over loyalty and honour. This parallel narrative serves as a foil to Guo Jing’s journey, highlighting the consequences of one’s choices and actions.

Throughout the story, Jin Yong introduces a cast of memorable characters, including the Five Greats of the martial arts world: Wang Chongyang, Huang Yaoshi, Ouyang Feng, Hong Qigong, and Duan Zhixing. Each of these legendary figures plays a crucial role in shaping the events of the novel and the development of the main characters.

Themes

The Legend of the Condor Heroes explores a rich tapestry of themes that resonate deeply with readers and contribute to its enduring popularity. Jin Yong skilfully interweaves historical events, such as the rise of Genghis Khan and the Mongol Empire, with the fictional narrative.

This blend of history and fantasy creates a rich tapestry that explores themes such as the nature of heroism, loyalty to country versus personal relationships, the consequences of choices and actions, the balance between intellect and physical prowess, and cultural clashes and understanding.

Heroism

One of the central themes is the nature of heroism. Through Guo Jing’s journey, Jin Yong examines what it means to be a hero in a world fraught with political intrigue and moral ambiguity. Guo Jing’s unwavering moral compass and dedication to righteousness present a model of heroism rooted in traditional Chinese values.

In contrast, characters like Yang Kang offer a counterpoint, showing how ambition and self-interest can lead one astray from the heroic path.

Loyalty

Loyalty is another key theme, explored on multiple levels. Guo Jing’s loyalty to his country, his mentors, and his principles is constantly tested throughout the novel. The complex political landscape of the Song and Jin dynasties provides a backdrop for examining loyalty to one’s nation versus personal relationships.

This theme often intersects with the idea of identity, as characters like Guo Jing and Yang Kang grapple with their heritage and allegiances.

Personal growth

The power of education and personal growth is a recurring motif. Guo Jing’s transformation from a slow-witted child to a skilled martial artist and strategist highlights the importance of perseverance and the right guidance.

This theme extends to the novel’s treatment of martial arts, which are portrayed not just as physical skills but as paths to personal and spiritual development.

Cultural understanding

Jin Yong also delves into the theme of cultural understanding and conflict. The novel’s setting, spanning Han Chinese, Mongol, and Jurchen territories, allows for an exploration of cultural differences, prejudices, and the potential for bridge-building between diverse groups. Characters like Guo Jing and Yang Kang, who straddle multiple cultural identities, serve as conduits for this theme.

Impact of choices

The consequences of choices and actions form another crucial theme. Characters frequently face difficult decisions that have far-reaching implications, not just for themselves but for the broader world. This theme ties into ideas of moral responsibility and the ripple effects of individual actions on history.

Cast

See more: The Legend of the Condor Heroes characters

Protagonists

  • Guo Jing (郭靖 – Guō Jìng) – Protagonist known for his honesty, loyalty, and strong moral compass, despite being a slow learner
  • Huang Rong (黄蓉 – Huáng Róng) – Guo Jing’s love interest and partner, renowned for her exceptional intelligence and varied skills
  • Yang Kang (杨康 – Yáng Kāng) – Guo Jing’s sworn brother and eventual antagonist who is raised as a Jin prince and chooses ambition over honour
  • Mu Nianci (穆念慈 – Mù Niàncí) – Skilled martial artist who struggles between her love for Yang Kang and her sense of righteousness

Important characters

  • The Seven Eccentrics of Jiangnan:
    • Ke Zhen’e (柯镇恶 – Kē Zhèn’è) – Blind leader of the Seven Heroes whose other senses are heightened to extraordinary levels
    • Zhu Cong (朱聪 – Zhū Cōng) – The intelligent scholar-warrior known for his wit and clever strategies
    • Han Baoju (韩宝驹 – Hán Bǎojū) – Short but mighty hero renowned for his supreme horsemanship and the Wind Chasing Steps technique
    • Nan Xiren (南希仁 – Nán Xīrén) – The quiet woodcutter who wields a heavy rod and rarely speaks
    • Quan Jinfa (全金发 – Quán Jīnfā) – The merchant whose trading business provides cover for gathering intelligence
    • Han Xiaoying (韩小莹 – Hán Xiǎoyíng) – The only female among the Seven Heroes, specialising in sword techniques
    • Zhang Ahsheng (张阿生 – Zhāng Āshēng) – The mighty warrior known for his great strength and hearty appetite
  • Huang Yaoshi (黄药师 – Huáng Yàoshī) – Eccentric master of Peach Blossom Island and Huang Rong’s father, whose unconventional methods often conflict with orthodox martial arts schools
  • Hong Qigong (洪七公 – Hóng Qīgōng) – Leader of the Beggars’ Sect who teaches Guo Jing the Eighteen Dragon-subduing Palms
  • Ouyang Feng (欧阳锋 – Ōuyáng Fēng) – The Western Venom, a ruthless martial arts master who uses the Toad Stance
  • Temüjin/Genghis Khan (铁木真/成吉思汗 – Tiěmùzhēn/Chéngjísī Hán) – The great Mongol leader who protects young Guo Jing and later becomes Khan of the Mongol Empire

Supporting characters

  • Wang Chongyang (王重阳 – Wáng Chóngyáng) – Founder of the Quanzhen School and one of the Five Greats who shaped the martial arts world
  • Zhou Botong (周伯通 – Zhōu Bótōng) – The eccentric Old Wild Child who knows the Nine Yin Manual and befriends Guo Jing
  • Yang Tiexin (杨铁心 – Yáng Tiěxīn) – Yang Kang’s birth father and sworn brother to Guo Xiaotian, killed by Jin soldiers
  • Guo Xiaotian (郭啸天 – Guō Xiàotiān) – Guo Jing’s father and sworn brother to Yang Tiexin, killed before his son’s birth
  • Bao Xiruo (包惜弱 – Bāo Xīruò) – Yang Kang’s mother who remarries the Jin prince after believing her husband dead
  • Li Ping (李萍 – Lǐ Píng) – Guo Jing’s mother who raises him among the Mongols after her husband’s death
  • Mei Chaofeng (梅超风 – Méi Chāofēng) – Former disciple of Huang Yaoshi who was blinded and uses the Nine Yin White Bone Claw
  • Chen Xuanfeng (陈玄风 – Chén Xuánfēng) – Mei Chaofeng’s husband who stole martial arts manuals from Peach Blossom Island
  • Qiu Chuji (丘处机 – Qiū Chǔjī) – Quanzhen priest who arranges the marriage pact between the Guos and Yangs
  • Wanyan Honglie (完颜洪烈 – Wányán Hóngliè) – Jin prince who raises Yang Kang as his son and plots against the Song dynasty
  • Temüjin (铁木真 – Tiěmùzhēn) – Genghis Khan’s birth name, used in his early appearances before becoming the great khan
  • Jebe (哲别 – Zhébié) – Mongol general who teaches young Guo Jing archery
  • Tolui (拖雷 – Tuōléi) – Genghis Khan’s fourth son who becomes Guo Jing’s childhood friend
  • Yang Tianding (杨铁定 – Yáng Tiědìng) – Iron Palm Count who adopts and raises Mu Nianci
  • Sha Tongtian (沙通天 – Shā Tōngtiān) – Leader of the Four Demons of the Yellow River who serves the Jin prince
  • Liang Ziweng (梁子翁 – Liáng Zǐwēng) – The Ginseng Immortal who fights with poisoned weapons
  • Peng Lianhu (彭连虎 – Péng Liánhǔ) – Skilled martial artist known as “Butcher of a Thousand Hands” who serves the Jin

Martial arts

  • Eighteen Palms of Dragon-subduing (降龍十八掌)
  • Dog Beating Staff (打狗棒法)
  • Nine Yin Manual (九陰真經)
  • Peach Blossom Island Techniques (桃花島武功)
  • Toad Stance (蛙步)

Behind the scenes

Jin Yong began writing The Legend of the Condor Heroes in 1957 while working as a journalist and newspaper editor in Hong Kong. The novel was initially serialised in the Hong Kong Commercial Daily, with Jin Yong writing and publishing chapters on a daily basis. This demanding schedule often required him to write late into the night to meet deadlines.

The author drew inspiration from various sources, including Chinese history, folklore, and classical literature. He was particularly influenced by the concept of 侠义 (xiá yì), chivalrous righteousness, from traditional Chinese culture that embodies the ideal of the righteous knight-errant. Jin Yong’s background in journalism also played a role in his writing, as he incorporated elements of investigative reporting and social commentary into his narrative.

Throughout the serialisation process, Jin Yong made adjustments to the story based on reader feedback and his own evolving vision. This interactive aspect of the writing process contributed to the novel’s popularity and helped Jin Yong refine his craft.

According to Jin Yong, while writing The Legend of the Condor Heroes, he was working as a screenwriter and director at Great Wall Movie Enterprises. During this period, he was primarily reading Western drama and dramatic theory, which influenced his storytelling approach.

Some scenes, particularly the secret chamber healing episode at Ox Village, were written with theatrical staging and character blocking in mind.

The novel’s success led to multiple revisions over the years, with Jin Yong removing plot elements that were inessential to the main story, such as the red bird subplot and the Iron Palm Clan incidents, and combining certain characters, most notably merging Qin Nanqin with Mu Nianci.

Adaptations

The enduring popularity of The Legend of the Condor Heroes has led to numerous adaptations across various media. The novel has been translated into multiple languages, including English, Korean, Japanese, Vietnamese, and French, introducing Jin Yong’s work to a global audience.

In the realm of visual adaptations, the novel has been transformed into manga, films, and television series.

Film

Web film

  • The Legend of the Condor Heroes duology co-produced by Lajin, media Asia Film, CFM, and M&H Pictures
    • The Legend of the Condor Heroes: The Dragon Tamer (2021)
    • The Legend of the Condor Heroes: The Cadaverous Claw (2021)

Television

The 1983 TVB television adaptation, starring Felix Wong and Barbara Yung, is particularly noteworthy for its cultural impact. This version set the standard for future adaptations and played a significant role in popularising the story beyond literary circles.

Subsequent television adaptations, such as the 2003 Chinese series starring Li Yapeng and Zhou Xun, and the 2017 version with Yang Xuwen and Li Yitong, have each brought their own interpretation to the source material. These adaptations often reflect the changing tastes of audiences and advancements in production technology.

Manga and Comics

Lee Chi Ching’s manhua adaptation published by Hong Kong’s Ming Ho Press in 1998 and Indonesia’s MNC Comics in 2000.

Video games

The novel has also inspired various video games, allowing fans to immerse themselves in the world of wuxia.

  • Heroes of Jin Yong (1996): PC RPG featuring characters from multiple Jin Yong novels
  • Shachou Eiyuuden: The Eagle Shooting Heroes( 2000): PlayStation RPG developed by Sony Computer Entertainment
  • Legends of the Condor Heroes (2018): Mobile game based directly on the novel
  • 9Yin (2011): PC MMORPG incorporating elements and characters
  • Age of Wushu (2012): PC MMORPG with references to the novel’s martial arts and characters
  • Condor Heroes (2024): mobile MMORPG by NetEase

Legacy

The influence of The Legend of the Condor Heroes on Chinese popular culture cannot be overstated. The novel has played a significant role in popularising wuxia concepts and archetypes, with characters like Guo Jing and Huang Rong becoming cultural icons in Chinese-speaking regions.

Beyond entertainment, the novel has found its way into educational settings, being used in Chinese language education and cultural studies programs worldwide. Its blend of historical fiction and fantasy elements provides a unique entry point for discussions about Chinese history, philosophy, and cultural values.

The novel’s themes of heroism, loyalty, and moral integrity have resonated with readers across generations, contributing to its lasting appeal. Jin Yong’s work has inspired countless other authors, filmmakers, and artists, shaping the landscape of Chinese popular culture and contributing to the global spread of wuxia literature.

Academic interest in The Legend of the Condor Heroes and Jin Yong’s work, in general, has grown over the years. Literary scholars have analysed the novel’s narrative structure, use of language, and cultural significance, cementing its place not just as popular entertainment but as a work of literary merit.

In conclusion, The Legend of the Condor Heroes stands as a testament to Jin Yong’s storytelling prowess and his ability to capture the imagination of readers. Its enduring popularity and numerous adaptations speak to the universal appeal of its themes and the richness of its world-building.

As new generations continue to discover this classic of wuxia literature, its legacy as a cultural touchstone seems assured for years to come.

Translation

Fans on the now defunct SPCNet forum finished a community effort to translate the Second Edition of the novel into English. Following the closure of SPCNet, we have adopted the translation.

MacLehose Press released the official English translation, published as the Legends of the Condor Heroes series in four books, translated by Gigi Chang, Anna Holmwood, and Shelly Bryant.

See The Legend of the Condor Heroes translation index for more information.

See also

Footnotes

  1. 香港商報 – Xiānggǎng Shāng Bào. A Hong Kong newspaper that was founded in 1958. See Wikipedia. ↩

  2. 南宋 – Nán Sòng. A period of the Song Dynasty after the fall of the north to the Mongol Empire. See Wikipedia. ↩

  3. 女真 – Nǚzhēn. A collective term for groups of semi-nomadic people who lived in Manchuria. See Wikipedia. ↩

  4. 金 – Jīn. A dynasty ruled by the Jurchen people from 1115 to 1234. See Wikipedia. ↩

  5. 蒙古帝国 – Měnggǔ Dìguó. The Mongol Empire was the largest contiguous empire in history, spanning from 1206 to 1635. See Wikipedia. ↩

  6. 靖康之变 – Jìngkāng zhī biàn. A series of invasions and atrocities that marked fall of the Northern Song dynasty to the Jin dynasty in 1127. See Wikipedia. ↩

  7. 北宋 – Běi Sòng. A period of the Song Dynasty that lasted from 960 to 1127 CE. See Wikipedia. ↩