Wu Zhirong (simplified: 吴之荣, traditional: 吳之榮, pinyin: Wú Zhīróng, jyutping: ng4 zi1 wing4) was a corrupt Qing official who reported the Ming History Case (明史案 — Míngshǐ Àn) in The Deer and the Cauldron. His actions led to the execution of Zhuang Tinglong (庄廷鑨) and set in motion the chain of events that resulted in Shuanger (双儿) being given to Wei Xiaobao.
In the novel
Reporting the Ming History Case
Wu Zhirong was a corrupt official who served as the magistrate of Gui’an County (归安县) but was dismissed for embezzlement. After being released from prison following a general amnesty, he went to Huzhou seeking to recover his position and wealth.
There, he learned about Zhuang Tinglong’s unauthorized publication of a history of the Ming dynasty. Knowing that such works violated Qing laws (which forbade using Ming era names and references), Wu Zhirong saw an opportunity to gain favor with the authorities.
He reported the case to Oboi (鳌拜), who was then serving as regent. This led to a major literary inquisition that resulted in the execution of Zhuang Tinglong and the persecution of many others associated with the case.
Impact on Shuanger
The Ming History Case directly affected Shuanger’s life. Her parents were killed by corrupt officials (possibly in connection with this or similar cases), and she was taken in by the Zhuang family. After Zhuang Tinglong’s execution, the Zhuang family matriarch, Madame Zhuang, gave Shuanger to Wei Xiaobao as a token of gratitude after he helped the Kangxi Emperor defeat Oboi.
Thus, Wu Zhirong’s actions indirectly led to Shuanger becoming Wei Xiaobao’s wife, demonstrating how historical events and personal vendettas interconnect in the novel.
Historical basis
Wu Zhirong (died 1665) was a real historical figure who played a key role in the Ming History Case. Historically:
- He served as magistrate of Gui’an County but was dismissed for corruption
- After being released from prison, he reported Zhuang Tinglong’s unauthorized history to the authorities
- The case led to a major literary inquisition under Oboi’s direction
- Wu Zhirong was rewarded with half of the confiscated property from the Zhuang and Zhu families
- He was later promoted to Right Vice Censor-in-Chief (右佥都御史)
- According to some accounts, he died of malaria in 1665, with popular legend attributing his death to divine retribution
In The Deer and the Cauldron, Jin Yong incorporates this historical figure and his role in the Ming History Case, using it to demonstrate the cruelty of literary inquisitions and their impact on ordinary people like Shuanger.
Significance
Wu Zhirong represents the corrupt officials who used the Qing’s literary inquisition policies for personal gain. His character demonstrates how legal systems can be exploited by unscrupulous individuals seeking wealth and advancement.
His role in the Ming History Case illustrates the broader theme of information control and censorship that runs throughout the novel. The case shows how the Qing dynasty used literary inquisitions to suppress dissent and control historical narratives.
Wu Zhirong’s historical death from malaria (which popular legend attributed to divine retribution) reflects the widespread belief that such betrayals would eventually be punished, providing a form of moral closure to his story.