Water Margin, Chapter 23 summary
Chapter 23 of 71 · 55 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 23, Wu Song reunites with his brother Wu Dalang, moves into his household, and rejects Pan Jinlian’s sexual advances, prompting her to accuse him instead. He moves out, accepts the magistrate’s assignment to Dongjing, and urges his brother to limit his business hours and protect the home.
What happens
- Wu Song meets Wu Dalang, learns about his marriage and move, and accepts an invitation to live with him.
- Pan Jinlian waits on Wu Song and flirts with him, but he treats her as his sister-in-law.
- During snowy weather, she arranges drinks alone with him; he rejects her advances and angrily warns her.
- She accuses Wu Song of approaching her improperly, and he moves back into the county office.
- Before leaving for Dongjing on the magistrate’s business, Wu Song advises his brother and challenges his sister-in-law’s conduct.
- Wu Da shortens his working day despite his wife’s complaints, and she begins closing the house before his return.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Wu Song refuses to expose his sister-in-law’s behavior to his brother. His departure protects his brother from an explicit account but leaves the household conflict unresolved.
Quick check
Why does the magistrate choose Wu Song for the journey to Dongjing?
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