The Significance of ‘Flea on a Drum’ (Shi Qian 史阡) in The Water Margin (水浒传)
Shi Qian 史阡, nicknamed gǔ shàng de zhǎo 鼓上的蚤 or ‘Flea on a Drum‘ , is a fascinating character from Water Margin 水浒传, one of China’s Four Great Classical Novels. His character reflects themes of rebellion against corrupt authority and social injustice, embodying the qualities of resilience and cunning.
Character Overview
Shi Qian 史阡 is depicted as a skilled and resourceful thief with remarkable agility and stealth. His abilities makes him an effective operative in the context of the novel’s narrative. The nickname Flea on a Drum 鼓上的蚤, encapsulates his small stature and swift movements, likening him to a flea that can easily evade capture while creating significant disturbances. This metaphor not only highlights his physical traits but also hints at his tactical approach to challenges. It is an ideal name for one who is a master of stealth.
Role in Water Margin 水浒传
In the Water Margin 水浒传, Shi Qian 史阡 is one of the 108 outlaws who band together at Liangshan Marsh 梁山 to oppose corrupt officials and oppressive authorities. In the story, Shi Qian 史阡 is a native of Gaotangzhou 高唐州, present-day Gaotang County 高唐縣, Shandong 山东. He is a master burglar who, due to his slim and small size, can nimbly scale walls and move across rooftops to penetrate buildings and fortresses. Nicknamed ‘Flea on a Drum’ 鼓上的蚤 for his agility, Shi Qian 史阡 lives in Jizhou 蓟州 and targets the homes there. He once ran into trouble with the authorities but was helped by chief warden Yang Xiong 杨雄 to escape. Each character in the novel has a nickname that reflects their personality or skills, and Shi Qian’s 史阡 nickname is particularly fitting due to his expertise in stealth and penetration.
Shi Qian’s 史阡 exploits often involve clever tactics and deception, traits that are highly valued among the outlaws. His resourcefulness makes him a valuable member of the group, showcasing the novel’s emphasis on camaraderie and loyalty among the bandits. Shi Qian’s 史阡 contributions to the group’s missions illustrate the power of wit and intelligence in overcoming adversity.
Symbolism
The character of Shi Qian 史阡 embodies themes of resilience and the fight against tyranny. Like the flea that disrupts a drum’s rhythm, he represents those who may seem insignificant but possess the power to challenge larger societal issues. This idea resonates with the overarching narrative of the Water Margin 水浒传, which critiques the social and political corruption of its time. Shi Qian’s 史阡 character serves as a reminder that even the smallest individuals can make a significant impact in the struggle against injustice.
Shi Qian 史阡, nicknamed gǔ shàng de zhǎo 鼓上的蚤 or ‘Flea on a Drum‘ , is a fascinating character from Water Margin 水浒传. The character on the left is a portrayal of Shi Qian 史阡 in a Beijing Opera performance.
