Sima Qian

About the Author

Sima Qian (c. 145–86 BCE) was a pioneering Chinese historian, astronomer, and poet of the Han Dynasty, renowned for his monumental work, the Shiji (Records of the Grand Historian), which chronicles over two millennia of Chinese history from legendary times to his own era. Despite enduring severe personal hardships, including castration as punishment for defending a disgraced general, Sima Qian persevered to complete this seminal text, blending meticulous research, biographical narratives, and philosophical insights. His innovative approach to historiography, emphasizing primary sources and critical analysis, established a foundational model for Chinese historical writing. 'The First Emperor: Selections from the Historical Records (Oxford World's Classics)' offers modern readers a curated glimpse into his enduring legacy, highlighting his vivid portrayals of emperors, scholars, and common folk that continue to illuminate the complexities of ancient Chinese society.