Sima Qian (circa 145–86 BC) was a Chinese historian, astrologer, and court scribe during the Han dynasty. He is often referred to as the “Grand Historian” for his monumental work, “Records of the Grand Historian” (Shiji), which is considered one of the most important works of Chinese historiography. Sima Qian’s meticulous research, narrative skill, and comprehensive scope set a standard for historical writing in China. His work covers Chinese history from the earliest times up to his own era, providing valuable insights into politics, culture, and society. Despite facing personal and political challenges, including punishment for speaking out against the emperor, Sima Qian remained dedicated to preserving and documenting China’s history for future generations.
Sima Qian was born in 145 or 135 BCE in Longmen, near present-day Hancheng, Shaanxi Province, China. He hailed from a prestigious family of historians and court officials, with his father, Sima Tan, serving as the Grand Historian of the Han dynasty. From a young age, Sima Qian received a classical education, studying Confucian classics, history, and literature under the guidance of his father.
Following in his father’s footsteps, Sima Qian entered government service and began his career as a court historian and astrologer under Emperor Wu of Han. His official duties included recording court rituals, ceremonies, and historical events, as well as interpreting celestial phenomena and advising the emperor on matters of state.
Sima Qian’s most enduring contribution to Chinese literature and historiography is his monumental work, the “Records of the Grand Historian” (Shiji). Composed over a period of nearly two decades, from around 109 to 91 BCE, the “Shiji” is a comprehensive chronicle of Chinese history from the earliest legendary rulers to the author’s own time. It is divided into five sections, covering topics such as the annals of the emperors, biographies of notable individuals, treatises on various subjects, and discussions of philosophy and literature.
What sets the “Shiji” apart from earlier historical texts is its innovative approach to historiography. Rather than relying solely on official court records and dynastic annals, Sima Qian sought to provide a more nuanced and comprehensive account of Chinese history by incorporating a wide range of sources, including interviews with scholars, travelers, and eyewitnesses, as well as legends, myths, and folklore.
One of the most famous sections of the “Shiji” is the “Biographies of Exemplary Women” (Lienü zhuan), which highlights the achievements and virtues of women throughout Chinese history. This section is particularly noteworthy for its portrayal of women as active agents in shaping the course of history, challenging traditional gender roles and stereotypes.
In addition to his historical writings, Sima Qian was also a gifted poet, essayist, and literary critic. He was known for his eloquent prose style and his keen insights into human nature, which he expressed in a wide range of literary genres, including poetry, essays, and philosophical treatises.
Despite his literary talents and scholarly achievements, Sima Qian’s life was marked by personal tragedy and professional adversity. In 99 BCE, he was involved in a conspiracy to overthrow the emperor, which ultimately failed. As punishment for his involvement, Sima Qian was sentenced to suffer the “five penalties,” a brutal form of punishment that included castration.
Despite the physical and emotional pain of his ordeal, Sima Qian remained undaunted in his commitment to his craft. Refusing to let his personal suffering overshadow his passion for history, he continued to work on the “Shiji” even as he endured the shame and humiliation of his punishment.
In a poignant autobiographical passage known as the “Letter to Ren An” (Ren An Shu), Sima Qian reflects on his decision to prioritize his duty as a historian over his personal honor and reputation. He writes, “I dared not to die, but I dared to face public ridicule and continue my work.” Sima Qian’s decision to persevere in the face of adversity and to uphold the principles of truth and integrity in his historical writings has earned him admiration and respect throughout the ages. His “Records of the Grand Historian” remains one of the most important historical texts in Chinese literature, serving as a foundational source for the study of Chinese history, culture, and civilization.