Pathway to Japanese Literature

Discover Japan's stories—across time, across language.

Romance of the Three KingdomsAuthor: Yoshikawa Eiji

Original Title	三国志
Author	吉川英治
Genre	Historical Fiction
Author Type	Male Author
Summary	Amidst a pivotal siege at Fancheng, legendary general Guan Yu of Shu battles not only enemy forces but a festering wound from a poisoned arrow. His iron will dismisses concerns over his failing health, even as his officers whisper of retreat. The arrival of Hua Tuo, a famed physician, offers hope—a grueling bone-scraping surgery performed as Guan Yu calmly plays Go, showcasing his unyielding spirit. Yet victory slips through his grasp as political machinations unfold: Wei conspires with Wu to strike from behind, while Wu’s strategists Lü Meng and Lu Xun orchestrate a masterful ruse, feigning weakness to lull Jingzhou’s defenses. Betrayal brews within Guan Yu’s ranks as disgruntled commanders capitulate, leaving critical strongholds undefended. As alliances fracture and enemies close in, Guan Yu’s forces crumble, his once-unshakable resolve tested by cascading defeats. The tale weaves valor and hubris, where loyalty wavers, and every triumph masks impending ruin—a timeless clash of ambition and fate on the precipice of an empire’s unraveling.