Tuhai (simplified: 图海, traditional: 圖海, pinyin: Túhǎi, jyutping: tou4 hoi2) is a Grand Secretary (大学士 — Dàxuéshì), serving as an important imperial official in the Qing court in The Deer and the Cauldron.
Biography
Historical background
Tuhai was a real historical figure who lived during the early Qing dynasty. He was a prominent Manchu official who served in various important positions during the Kangxi Emperor’s reign, including Grand Secretary and military commander.
In the novel, Tuhai serves as a Grand Secretary, holding a position of significant authority within the imperial court.
Service as Grand Secretary
Tuhai serves as a Grand Secretary, part of the Grand Secretariat (内阁 — Nèigé), which was the highest level of imperial administration. As a Grand Secretary, he participates in policy-making and serves as an advisor to the Kangxi Emperor.
His position gives him significant authority and responsibility for administrative matters, making him an important figure in the imperial court’s decision-making process.
Role in imperial court
Tuhai participates in various court functions and activities, serving as an advisor to the emperor on administrative and policy matters. His role includes participating in discussions about government policies, coordinating administrative activities, and ensuring that the imperial court functions effectively.
As a high-ranking official, Tuhai is part of the inner circle of imperial advisors who help shape the policies and decisions of the Qing court, contributing to the overall governance of the empire.
Significance
Tuhai represents the theme of imperial administration and the role of high-ranking officials in the Qing court. His position as Grand Secretary demonstrates how the Qing dynasty organized its administrative system, with a Grand Secretariat providing high-level policy advice and coordination.
His character also highlights the theme of Manchu participation in the Qing government, showing how Manchu officials like Tuhai held important positions within the imperial administration.
Tuhai’s character contributes to the broader theme of imperial court politics and the various officials who contributed to the governance of the Qing dynasty, showing how grand secretaries like Tuhai played important roles in managing the empire’s administrative affairs.