References

• 《四庫全書總目提要·卷166 集部·別集類十九 金至元一》

Source: ''Qingya Ji (青崖集)'' 'Qingya Ji' is a five-volume collection of literary works compiled by Wei Chu (魏初), a prominent figure during the Yuan Dynasty. Wei Chu, whose courtesy name was Tai Chu and who was known by his pseudonym Qingya, was from Shunsheng in Hongzhou. His ancestor, Wei Fan, held the position of a compiler in the Imperial Secretariat during the late Jin Dynasty and was renowned for his integrity and straightforwardness. Wei Fan had no sons and thus adopted Wei Chu as his heir. Wei Chu began his career as a clerk in the Secretariat and later returned home. He was recommended to the court, and upon learning that he was Wei Fan's son, Emperor Shizu appointed him as a compiler in the National History Institute. He subsequently served as a censor and eventually rose to the position of Vice Chancellor of the Southern Platform. His life and achievements are detailed in his biography in the 'Yuan History'. The 'Jingji Zhi' (經籍志) by Jiao Hong records that Wei Chu's 'Qingya Ji' consisted of ten volumes. The 'Wen Yuan Ge Shu Mu' (文渊阁书目) also lists Wei Tai Chu's 'Qingya Wen Ji' (青崖文集) in seven volumes, indicating that the original collection was still extant during the early Ming Dynasty. However, the collection gradually became lost over time. The current five-volume edition of 'Qingya Ji' has been compiled from the poems and essays found in the 'Yongle Dadian' (永乐大典), offering a glimpse into the original work. Historical records state that Wei Chu was an avid reader and particularly excelled in the study of the 'Spring and Autumn Annals' (春秋). He wrote in a concise yet structured manner. In his collection, he mentions being taught by Jiang Yu and receiving guidance from Yuanshan (元好问), a renowned scholar of the time. He also recounts his close relationship with Yuanshan, whom he would visit daily when Yuanshan was in Yan. This indicates that Wei Chu's literary and scholarly foundation was deeply rooted in the teachings of Yuanshan. During Emperor Shizu's reign, Wei Chu began his career by presenting and interpreting classical texts and historical records. He later served in advisory roles and was known for his courage in speaking out on important matters. His 'Qingya Ji' includes a section on memorials, which are meticulously dated and categorized. Some of these memorials, such as those on "Requesting the Establishment of Laws," "Requesting the Restoration of Court Etiquette," "Requesting the Exemption of Civilian Military Service in Daxing," and "Requesting the Annual Election of Successors for Censorate Officials," are documented in his biography in the 'Yuan History'. Other memorials, such as "Requesting the Delay of Salt Distribution," "Requesting the Protection of Scholar Households," "Requesting the Commendation of Zheng Jiang's Loyalty," "Requesting the Repair of the Mencius Temple," "Requesting the Employment of Craftsmen," and "Requesting the Cessation of Military Recruitment in Henan," are not mentioned in the 'Yuan History' but are crucial to understanding the political and social issues of the time. The survival of 'Qingya Ji' is significant not only for its literary value but also for its historical insights. It provides valuable information that complements and enriches the historical record, making it a precious resource for scholars and historians. ==References== * 《四庫全書總目提要·卷166 集部·別集類十九 金至元一》