“Romance of the Three Kingdoms” is one of the four great classical novels of Chinese literature. Written by Luo Guanzhong in the 14th century, the story is set during the end of the Han Dynasty and the Three Kingdoms period. It blends history and fiction to tell the tale of war, loyalty, betrayal, and the struggle for power between the kingdoms of Wei, Shu, and Wu.

The novel introduces many famous historical figures such as Liu Bei, Cao Cao, and Sun Quan. Each character has a strong personality and plays a major role in the battles and political strategies throughout the story. One of the most respected characters is Zhuge Liang, the wise and loyal strategist who serves Shu. His clever plans and calm wisdom make him a fan favorite, even among modern readers.

One of the reasons this novel remains popular is because of its deep themes. It explores what it means to be loyal, how ambition can be both inspiring and dangerous, and how human relationships affect the course of history. The friendships and rivalries in the story feel real and powerful, making it easy for readers to connect with the characters.

To understand how students today feel about “Romance of the Three Kingdoms,” I interviewed two students from Eleanor Roosevelt High School.

Chester Chen said, “I really like how the story is full of strategy and smart thinking. Zhuge Liang is like a genius, and every time he shows up, I know something amazing is going to happen.”

Jason Guo shared, “It’s not just about battles; it’s about loyalty and honor too. Liu Bei really cares about his friends and people, and that makes him a great leader.”

Even though it was written centuries ago, “Romance of the Three Kingdoms” still teaches important lessons today. Whether it’s about friendship, leadership, or the cleverness needed to survive in a chaotic time, this classic novel remains a powerful and inspiring story for readers of all ages.