Zhang Mai (787 -843), a statesman and writer in the Tang Dynasty, was born in Luoyang, Henan Province, and was one of the important figures in the literary history of the Tang Dynasty. Zhang Mai's father was Zhang Ji, a famous scholar in the Tang Dynasty, and Zhang Mai received a good education since childhood. At the age of sixteen, he was already familiar with the subset of classics and history and could write poems. Later, he was admitted to the Jinshi, entered the officialdom and became an official. In his political career, he experienced many officialdom, but he always maintained a clean and honest character.
Zhang Mai's Literary Achievements
Zhang Mai is one of the important figures in the literary history of the Tang Dynasty, and his literary achievements are very rich. His poetry is famous for its boldness, freedom, freshness and freedom, and is known as "the most natural and fresh poetic style after Zhang Ji". His prose is also excellent, famous for its freshness, naturalness and beautiful writing style. His representative works include Ten Thoughts on Emperor Taizong of Tang Dynasty and Ode to Historic Sites.
Zhang Mai's Political Career
Zhang Mai's political career is very colorful. He has experienced many times in officialdom, but he has always maintained a clean and honest character. He has served as Zuo Yishi, You Yishi and Dr. Tai Chang, and was later appointed as a senior official such as Zhongshushen and Yousanshe. He showed excellent talent and quality in officialdom, which won the appreciation of the emperor at that time.
Zhang Mai's Thought and Contribution
Zhang Mai's thought is very open and progressive. He advocated respecting talents and opposed the drawbacks of the imperial examination system. He believes that the imperial examination system can only select some talents, but not real talents. He also advocates reforming the official system and improving the quality and ability of officials so that they can better serve the country. His thought had a far-reaching influence on politics and culture at that time, and was called "Zhang School" by later generations.