Gu Shao

Gu Shao, courtesy name Xiaoze, was a figure of the state of Wu and the eldest son of Gu Yong. He does not appear in Romance of the Three Kingdoms.

Deeds

Gu Shao was widely read in books and historical records and enjoyed appraising people. In his youth, he was as renowned as his maternal uncle Lu Ji, while Lu Xun, Zhang Dun, Bu Jing, and others came next. People from various regions traveled to meet him, and his reputation spread far and wide. (According to historical records)^[1]

At the age of twenty-seven, Gu Shao took office as Administrator of Yuzhang. Upon arriving, he held a sacrifice at the tomb of Xu Ruzi, treated Xu’s descendants generously, and banned improper rites that violated ritual standards. He sent clerks of good ability to study, selected the best among them for official posts, and greatly advanced education and moral instruction. (According to historical records)^[1]

Gu Shao promoted Ding Xu, Zhang Bing, Wu Can, and Yin Li, who came from humble backgrounds. He befriended them and helped establish their reputations. When Zhang Bing suffered a major bereavement, Gu Shao personally observed mourning for him. (According to historical records)^[1]

Gu Shao served in Yuzhang for five years and died in office, leaving two sons, Gu Tan and Gu Cheng. (According to historical records)^[1]

After Gu Shao’s death, Sun Quan asked who should succeed him. Lü Meng recommended Cai Yi, saying he was a capable official who got things done. (According to historical records)^[2]

Relationships

• Son of Gu Yong.^[1]
• Nephew of Lu Ji, and as renowned as him.^[1]
• A daughter of Sun Ce was his wife.^[1]
• Father of Gu Tan and Gu Cheng.^[1]
• Befriended and promoted Ding Xu, Zhang Bing, Wu Can, and Yin Li.^[1]