Chapters 1-5 Summary

The novel Water Margin by Shi Nai'an details the rise and fall of a group of bandits during the time of the Song Dynasty in China. Among the themes addressed in this novel are the abuse of power by officials, the unjust punishment of the loyal and the power of chivalry and loyalty. Much can also be learned from the novel about the customs and habits of the early Chinese people as well as their thought and belief systems.

In Chapter 1, the people of the Eastern Capitol, under the rule of Ren Zong, suffer from a severe plague. The people plead with Zong to have Zhang the Divine Teacher come so that he can pray over them and dispel the plague. Marshal Hong Xin is sent to the Taoist monk's home to present him with an edict. While at the monastery...