Emperor Wen of Sui’s Failed Parenting Method

 

The Failed Parenting of a Great Emperor

Emperor Wen of Sui, Yang Jian (楊堅), was the figure who ended one of the most chaotic periods in Chinese history, the Sixteen Kingdoms of the Five Barbarians, and unified the mainland. Yang Jian was an aristocratic noble of the Northern Zhou Dynasty, who deftly navigated the chaotic political landscape to eventually rise to the position of chancellor. After the death of the Northern Zhou emperor, when a young heir ascended the throne, Yang Jian accepted abdication and became emperor himself. Known as one of the great rulers, Emperor Wen of Sui conquered the Southern Chen, unifying China. However, despite his impressive achievements, he failed in educating his own children. The Sui Dynasty would ultimately collapse within thirty years due to internal discord. By examining Emperor Wen’s failures in raising his children, we can find valuable lessons.

The Parenting Failures of Emperor Wen of Sui, the Ruler Who Ended the 360-Year Turmoil of the Sixteen Kingdoms of the Five Barbarians Source: wikipedia

Demanding Perfection with Increasing Pressure

For the future of the Sui Dynasty, Emperor Wen engaged his eldest son, Yang Yong (楊勇), in government affairs from an early age. Yang Yong, displaying a broad vision, was highly valued by his father, who nevertheless often openly criticized his shortcomings. At one point, Yang Yong, who enjoyed extravagance, frequently adorned himself with a richly decorated helmet from Shu, something Emperor Wen frowned upon. Summoning his son, Emperor Wen lectured him on the wisdom of the Book of Documents (尙書), warning him that the downfall of past dynasties stemmed from the rulers' indulgence in luxury. Additionally, Yang Yong’s fondness for women only deepened his father’s concerns. Annoyed by his father’s relentless nagging, Yang Yong became increasingly rebellious, ultimately leading to his removal as crown prince.

 

Prioritizing Outward Appearance and Compliance

As Yang Yong’s behavior became more problematic, Emperor Wen seriously considered removing him as crown prince. Observing this, Yang Guang (楊廣), one of his other sons, began intentionally displaying the exact behaviors that would appeal to his father. Unlike the irresponsible demeanor of his elder brother, Yang Guang exhibited the manners of a gentleman, earning his father’s favor. Behind the scenes, however, Yang Guang schemed to replace Yang Yong by bribing officials to spread slander against him. After Yang Yong was demoted, Yang Guang became the new crown prince. But as soon as he assumed the throne, Yang Guang revealed his true nature, indulging in luxuries and neglecting state affairs, contrary to the disciplined behavior he had shown his father. Ultimately, it was under Emperor Yang of Sui that the dynasty collapsed, a mere thirty years after its founding. Emperor Wen’s preference for children who followed his own idealized actions led to a situation where his children felt they needed to perform according to his expectations. Consequently, while they appeared outwardly obedient, they developed deep resentment toward their father’s authority.

 

Emperor Wen, though remembered as a just ruler, expected his children to be as strict as he was. Forced to act to gain their father's approval, his children ultimately harbored defiance and became historically remembered as failures.

 

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