| NAME | |
|---|---|
| Chinese Name | 阮小五, 阮小五, Ruǎn Xiǎowǔ |
| Nickname | 29 - Heavenly Sin Star - 天罪星 (Tiānzuì Xīng) - Thiên Tội Tinh; Short-Lived Second Brother (短命二郎, Duǎnmìng Èrláng, Đoản Mệnh Nhị Lang) |
| Other name | Nguyễn Tiểu Ngũ |
| INFORMATION | |
| Birth Place | Chizhou (池州; Trì Châu) |
| Death Reason | Killed in battle against Fang La (方腊, Fāng Là, Phương Lạp) forces after being caught in a dragnet at Qingxi (青溪, Qīngxī, Thanh Khê) |
| FAMILY | |
| Relatives | |
| CAREER | |
| Allegiance | Liangshan Marsh |
| Battles | Robbery of the Birthday Gift, Battle of Gaotang, Battle of Zengtou City, Campaign against Liao, Campaign against Fang La |
Biography & Literary Legacy of Ruan Xiaowu
Ruan Xiaowu, renowned by his dramatic moniker “Short-lived Second Brother,” stands as one of the fiercest naval leaders in the classic epic Water Margin. Ranked 29th among the 108 Liangshan heroes and 17th of the Heavenly Spirits, he governed the vibrant waters of Shijie Village alongside his brothers before taking up arms against systemic tyranny.
Dwelling in austere conditions as humble fishermen, the three brothers harbored profound contempt for the oppressive mandarins of the Northern Song Dynasty. When military confrontation flared, his exceptional swimming mastery, tactical agility, and relentless ferocity in river ambushes established Liangshan’s fleet as an invincible fortress against imperial incursions.
Archetype and Martial Renown
Although historical records rarely isolate civilian rebels of his specific name, his literary depiction embodies the unyielding spirit of grassroots resistance. His epithet does not indicate a premature demise, but rather warns that encountering him brings swift death to adversaries. His reckless bravery and total disregard for personal safety made him indispensable during pivotal amphibious campaigns.
Key Literary Milestones
The Seven Stars Gathering
Ruan Xiaowu joins Chao Gai and fellow conspirators to intercept the birthday convoy of Governor Liang, seizing ill-gotten wealth and sparking the foundational uprising at Mount Liang.
Heroic Fall at Qingxi
Following imperial amnesty, Ruan Xiaowu fights courageously in the southern expedition against Fang La, meeting a tragic end during the fierce assault on Qingxi County.
Allies and Kinship
- Ruan Xiaoer: The eldest sibling and senior naval commander who guided the brothers with tactical wisdom.
- Ruan Xiaoqi: The fiery youngest brother who survived the grueling campaigns and eventually retired back to fishing.
- Chao Gai: The early charismatic chieftain who inspired the family to dedicate their lives to righteous rebellion.
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