References

• 《四庫全書總目提要·卷51 史部·雜史類》

Source: "革除逸史" is a two-volume historical work written by Zhu Muzhe during the Ming Dynasty. Zhu Muzhe, also known by his courtesy name Muzhe, authored another work titled "Yixue Shiyi." "革除逸史" chronicles the events of the reign of the Jianwen Emperor, presenting them in a year-by-year format. The Ming History Yiwen Zhi (Arts and Literature Catalogue) lists a two-volume work by Zhu Muzhe titled "Xunguo Ji" (Record of the Abdicated State) but does not mention "革除逸史." However, it is unlikely that two separate works would cover the same events and have the same number of volumes, suggesting that "Xunguo Ji" might be an alternative title for "革除逸史." The events surrounding the abdication of the Jianwen Emperor were initially suppressed due to strict censorship, leading to a scarcity of reliable records. Over time, as public opinion shifted and people began to value the documentation of loyalty and righteousness, numerous accounts were written. These accounts included both genuine and fabricated narratives, leading to ongoing disputes and debates. Scholars like Fuyan and Huang Zuo attempted to clarify some of the discrepancies, but definitive conclusions remained elusive. In his preface, Zhu Muzhe specifically addresses the legend of the Jianwen Emperor shaving his head and fleeing as a monk, and the story of his return to the palace during the Zhengtong reign in June 1444. He asserts that these stories are the creations of well-meaning individuals. Therefore, in "革除逸史," the events of Jianwen fourth year, June 1402 are described with ambiguity, noting only that a fire broke out in the palace and the emperor abdicated. This balanced approach to the conflicting narratives is considered commendable. ==References== * 《四庫全書總目提要·卷51 史部·雜史類》