Duke Xi, Part II

Abstract

Translator’s summary: This chapter sees the end of Duke Huan of Qi’s career as hegemon. Before dying of (mostly) natural causes, he seems to become somewhat overbearing and even forces a marriage upon Duke Xi. Chaos reigns after his passing. The last few entries of the chapter focus on Duke Xiang of Song and his stubborn sense of honor. His capture leaves the state of Song far from leaderless, however, as its people are free to voice, in his absence, some of the more radical notions of sovereignty to be found in this book.