Contrasts the selfless devotion of Shu heroes against the pragmatic, often ruthless, ambition of Cao Cao.
While based on the historical Records of the Three Kingdoms ( Sanguozhi ), the novel adds supernatural elements and exaggerated heroics. Sanguo Yanyi
Corruption and the rise of the tyrant Dong Zhuo lead to chaos. Contrasts the selfless devotion of Shu heroes against
The idea that power is granted by divine favor, which shifts as dynasties rise and fall. Sanguo Yanyi