Entering the World of the Zuo Commentary (Zuo Zhuan)

Today, let’s delve into Zuo Zhuan. Attributed to Zuo Qiuming, hailed as the founder of Chinese classical writing and master of ancient prose, this work is one of the most complete annalistic histories of ancient China. Originally titled The Annals of Zuo, it is commonly referred to as Zuo Zhuan after the Han Dynasty. Together with the Gongyang Commentary and the Guliang Commentary, it forms the Three Commentaries on The Spring and Autumn Annals. 

Zuo Zhuan uses detailed accounts of historical events from the Spring and Autumn period to interpret The Spring and Autumn Annals. Compared to the other two commentaries, which focus on the philosophical principles of the Annals, Zuo Zhuan excels in narrating and describing events and individuals. The content is organized chronologically according to the reigns of the twelve dukes of the State of Lu as recorded in the Annals. 

It primarily documents the decline of the Zhou royal house and the power struggles among feudal lords. Additionally, it provides extensive commentary on various aspects of ancient life, including rituals, institutional systems, social customs, interethnic relations, moral values, astronomy, geography, calendars, ancient texts, myths, legends, songs and proverbs. Zuo Zhuan has had a profound influence on later generations of historians and writers, shaping both historiography and literature.