Quick Answer: Who Is Wen Zhong?
Wen Zhong (闻仲, Wén Zhòng), also called Grand Tutor Wen (闻太师, Wén Tàishī), commands Shang forces in Investiture of the Gods (封神演义, Fēngshén Yǎnyì). He campaigns against Xiqi (西岐, Xīqí) and dies during the retreat. The final investiture gives him command of the Thunder Department (雷部, Léibù).[1][3][4]
- Zhao Gongming joins his side during the campaign.[2]
- Chapter 52 tells of Wen’s death at Absolute Dragon Ridge.[3]
- Chapter 99 gives him a new office and duties after death.[4]
His roles at court, in the field and in the register belong to different parts of his story.
With the roads closing around his army, the grand tutor considers how to return to the capital. He can imagine escaping by himself. The question is what that would mean for the men who followed him into the campaign.
Why the Grand Tutor Marches Against Xiqi
Chapter 41 sends Wen against the forces based at Xiqi, where Jiang Ziya serves Zhou. Its opening verse places the disorder of Shang government beside the grand tutor’s commitment to the dynasty. That combination matters when Wen’s opponents begin to gain the upper hand.[1]
The Allies Around the Grand Tutor
In Chapter 47, Zhao Gongming comes to Wen’s aid. He appears at the camp on a tiger and calls for Jiang. His intervention shows how the campaign brings practitioners with their own reputations and powers into the dynastic conflict.[2]
The Retreat to the Ridge
In Chapter 52, Wen considers withdrawing to the Shang capital but refuses to abandon his troops. He meets opposition again, including Nezha, and dies at the ridge. The chapter also follows the response to his death. Shen Gongbao seeks help elsewhere, eventually approaching Tu Xingsun.[3]
What Wen Zhong Becomes
The decree in Chapter 99 remembers his service to two reigns and assigns him authority over the Thunder Department. His title is Jiutian Yingyuan Leisheng Puhua Tianzun (九天应元雷声普化天尊). The department’s responsibilities include bringing clouds and rain. The appointment gives Wen another command after his last campaign has ended.[4]
The same novel associates Lei Zhenzi with thunder through his wings and the story of his adoption.
The Grand Tutor on Film
In Creation of the Gods II, Wu Hsing-kuo plays Wen. A scene described by 1905 Film Network puts him at odds with Deng Chanyu over the fate of the people in Xiqi. Their disagreement gives the film a way to show competing obligations within the Shang camp.[5]
FAQs About Wen Zhong
Is Grand Tutor Wen the same character as Wen Zhong?
Yes. Grand Tutor Wen is the title by which the novel often refers to him.[1][3]
Which chapter describes his death?
Wen dies at Absolute Dragon Ridge in Chapter 52.[3]
Which divine department does he command?
Chapter 99 appoints him to lead the Thunder Department.[4]
Sumber
[1] Investiture of the Gods. Chapter 41
[2] Investiture of the Gods. Chapter 47
[3] Investiture of the Gods. Chapter 52
[4] Shidian Guji. Investiture of the Gods, Chapter 99
[5] China Movie Channel. Creation of the Gods II coverage on 1905 Film Network