Kong Rong, styled Wenju, was a literati in the late Eastern Han Dynasty and the twenty-first descendant of Confucius. He was renowned for his literary talent and straightforward personality, but he also offended Cao Cao and was eventually killed by him.

Kong Rong's outspokenness caused him to make many enemies in the court. He repeatedly criticized Cao Cao publicly, which led to Cao Cao's dissatisfaction with him. According to the "History of the Later Han Dynasty," Kong Rong once said to Cao Cao, "If you can truly govern the country well, I am willing to be your subject. But if you are not sincere about serving the country, then I cannot be your subject." This straightforward attitude made Cao Cao wary of him.

In addition, Kong Rong was killed by Cao Cao because he opposed Cao Cao's claim to kingship. According to the "Records of the Three Kingdoms," when Cao Cao was conferred the title of Prince of Wei, Kong Rong publicly expressed his opposition. He said, "The title of Prince of Wei should be given to someone with virtue, not to someone with power." Such remarks were undoubtedly a provocation to Cao Cao.

Ultimately, Kong Rong was killed by Cao Cao for these reasons. His death was not only a tragedy for his personal fate but also a manifestation of the straightforward personality of ancient scholars. His story is still remembered and sung by people today and has become a part of ancient Chinese history.

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