Shi Nai'an (approximately 1296-1370), originally named Shi Er, styled Zhaorui, styled Zi'an, and also known as Nai'an, was born in Xinghua, Jiangsu (now part of Baiju Town, Dafeng, Yancheng). Originally from Suzhou, later moved to Huai'an. Also known as his hometown of Huai'an, he lived in Hangzhou and later returned to his hometown of Huai'an. A literary figure from the late Yuan and early Ming dynasties, whose main works include "Water Margin".
Shi Nai'an was intelligent and eager to learn since childhood. In the first year of Yuan Yanyou (1314), he passed the imperial examination and became a scholar. In the first year of Taiding (1324), he passed the imperial examination and became a jinshi in the second year of Zhishun (1331). Not long after, he was appointed as the magistrate of Qiantang County. He was reprimanded by the county official for defending the grievances of the poor and correcting them, so he resigned from his position and went home. In the 13th year of the Zhizheng reign (1353), he rebelled against the Yuan Dynasty with Zhang Shicheng, a salt farmer from Baiju Field, and others. Due to Zhang Shicheng's proud achievements, he angrily left Pingjiang and wandered the rivers and lakes, providing medical treatment and solving difficulties for others. After entering the home of Xu Qi, a wealthy businessman from Zhutang, Jiangyin, he not only taught, but also devoted himself to researching and creating. In the 27th year of the Zhizheng reign (1367), Shi Nai'an crossed the river and headed north to live in seclusion in Baiju on the seaside, focusing on his creative pursuits. In the third year of Ming Hongwu (1370), Shi Nai'an passed away in Huai'an.
Shi Nai'an's "Water Margin" is one of the four classic Chinese novels, which gathers the stories of the Liangshan Uprising that have been passed down among the people. It reflects the people's understanding and love hate feelings towards history, and expresses the author's praise for the rebel farmers. Once it was published, it was welcomed by the masses. Shi Nai'an not only has a rich life background, but also has high artistic expression ability. His creation is of great significance to the creation and development of Chinese novels, and has added a precious wealth to Chinese literature and even world literature.
