Kong Rong

Kong Rong, born in the year one hundred fifty-three, was a prominent Chinese poet and politician during the late Eastern Han dynasty. Known by his courtesy name Wenju, he was a distinguished descendant of Confucius, belonging to the twentieth generation of his lineage. His political career included serving as the Chancellor of Beihai State, where he earned the moniker Kong Beihai.

Throughout his life, Kong Rong was recognized for his sharp intellect and sophisticated literary style, earning him a place among the Seven Scholars of Jian'an, a notable group of literati of his era. Despite his contributions to literature, much of his work has been lost to history, with only a few pieces surviving in compilations from the Ming and Qing dynasties.

His political journey was marked by conflict, particularly with the warlord Cao Cao, whom he publicly humiliated on several occasions. This rivalry ultimately led to his downfall; after being defeated by Yuan Tan in the year one hundred ninety-six, he fled to the capital, Xuchang. Unfortunately, his opposition to Cao Cao culminated in his execution on various charges.

Kong Rong is perhaps best remembered for a well-known story that illustrates the values of courtesy and fraternal love. At the tender age of four, he famously chose to give the larger pears to his older and younger brothers, a tale that continues to be shared with children today. This story, known as 'Kong Rong giving up pears,' is also referenced in the Three Character Classic, a foundational text for elementary education since the Song dynasty.