Xu Xiake, a renowned traveler and geographer in Chinese history, whose footsteps covered the length and breadth of the motherland. However, the issue of Xu Xiake's character has been controversial. So, what is the evaluation of Xu Xiake? This article will take you to understand the true face of this historical figure.

I. Brief Introduction to Xu Xiake's Life

Xu Xiake, originally named Xu Hongzu, styled Xiake and known as Dongli, was a famous traveler and geographer from the late Ming Dynasty to the early Qing Dynasty. He was born into a scholarly family in Shangyu District, Shaoxing City, Zhejiang Province, so it can be said that Xu Xiake was a native of Zhejiang.

II. Xu Xiake's Travel Career

Xu Xiake had a passion for reading since childhood, especially for geographical books. After reaching adulthood, he decided to abandon the official career and devote himself to traveling. Starting from the age of 22, he embarked on a travel career that lasted for more than 30 years, covering the length and breadth of the motherland, including today's Jiangsu, Anhui, Jiangxi, Hunan, Hubei, Sichuan, Guizhou, Yunnan, Guangdong, Guangxi and other regions.

III. Xu Xiake's Contributions

During his travels, Xu Xiake not only enjoyed the beautiful scenery of the motherland, but also recorded detailed information about geography, climate, folklore, and other aspects of each place. His work "Xu Xiake's Travelogue" is known as the "Eastern Marco Polo" and has had a profound impact on geographical studies in later generations. In addition, Xu Xiake was also an outstanding litterateur, and his travelogue has high literary value, known as the "crown of travelogue".

IV. Controversy Over Xu Xiake's Character

Although Xu Xiake achieved prominent academic and literary achievements, his character has been controversial. Some people believe that during his travels, Xu Xiake pursued personal interests and pleasures too much, ignoring the responsibilities of family and society. In addition, he had conflicts with locals over trivial matters and was even accused of "immoral behavior".

V. Evaluation of Xu Xiake

Different people have different views on Xu Xiake's character issues. Some believe that although Xu Xiake's behavior is indeed problematic, it does not affect his academic and literary achievements. Others believe that Xu Xiake's character issues are not serious, and his achievements are sufficient to compensate for these deficiencies. Overall, people's evaluation of Xu Xiake is mixed.

VI. Conclusion

As a historical figure, Xu Xiake's life is full of legendary colors. Although his character issues are controversial, it does not affect our recognition of his academic and literary achievements. As the ancients said, "No one is perfect." We should look at this great traveler and geographer with a more tolerant attitude.

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