Legend Of The Water Margin is a novel set in the corrupt reign of the North Sung Dynasty (960-1127 AD). It tells of a community of 108 'Robin Hoods' sheltering in Liangshan (Mount Liang) and fighting against tyranny.
Some of them had been important government officials, some were admirals, hunters and fishermen. They have become unwitting bandit heroes, forced by the harsh officialdom to take to the hills.
To the emperor, they are criminals. To the people, they are right-minded champions of moral deeds.
The book is believed to have been written in the 14th century and is still popular. The language is lively and powerful. The book is also famous for its colourful characters:
'Timely Rain' Song Jiang is generous with his wealth and helps people out of trouble, hence his nickname. Although he killed his treacherous wife Yan Poxi, he is deeply respectful of the emperor's authority and suffers during his life as a fugitive.
'Traveller' Wu Song is best known for his courage, having killed a tiger with his bare hands. He murdered Pan Jinlian and Ximen Qing who poisoned his brother. In Liangshan, he becomes the general of the foot soldiers.