In historical records, the relationship between Emperor Taizong of Tang, Li Shimin, and his Empress Changsun Wujiu as well as his favorite concubine Yangfei has always been a topic of much interest. Due to the limited and complex nature of historical sources, it is not easy to directly compare the status of the two women in Li Shimin's heart. However, by analyzing the available historical materials, we can attempt to understand the roles and significance of these two women in Li Shimin's life.

1. Changsun Wujiu: A Companion Through Thick and Thin

Changsun Wujiu was Li Shimin's wife since their early days, and they had gone through the turmoil of the late Sui dynasty and the difficult period of establishing the Tang dynasty together. She was not only Li Shimin's life partner but also his political assistant. With her virtue and wisdom, Changsun Wujiu helped Li Shimin stabilize the palace and handle state affairs, embodying the ideal image of an Empress in Li Shimin's eyes. Their relationship was built on a foundation of deep trust and mutual respect.

2. Yangfei: The Focal Point of Favor

Yangfei, also known as Yang Shufei, the daughter of Emperor Yang of the Sui dynasty, changed the emotional landscape of the palace to some extent with her arrival. Yangfei attracted Li Shimin's attention with her beauty and talent, becoming his favorite concubine. In her, Li Shimin might have found a different kind of tenderness and artistic resonance from Changsun Wujiu. However, this favor did not change Changsun Wujiu's status as the Empress nor did it affect national political decisions.

3. Balancing Emotion and Responsibility

As an emperor, Li Shimin had to strike a balance between emotion and responsibility. His love for Changsun Wujiu was based on the deep affection between husband and wife and his recognition of her abilities, while his favor for Yangfei was more likely driven by personal preference and entertainment needs. In the context of feudal society, an emperor's favor for palace concubines was often fleeting, and it did not necessarily mean that they could replace the Empress.

4. Conclusion

Overall, Changsun Wujiu occupied an irreplaceable position in Li Shimin's heart. She was his companion through thick and thin and the mother of the nation. Although Yangfei received Li Shimin's favor, she was more like a spice in his life. In the eyes of a feudal emperor, emotion often needed to be balanced with political responsibility. Therefore, Changsun Wujiu's status as the Empress was unshakable. Through the stories of these historical figures, we can glimpse the complexity of royal marriage and love in ancient times, as well as how emperors sought a balance between personal emotions and national interests.

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