摘要
Xi Shi was the most stunning of the renowned Four Beauties of ancient China. She was born Shi Yiguang in Zhuluo Village of Zhejiang Province. It was from her birthplace that she got her later name, meaning "West Shi," as she lived in the western part of the village. Her beauty was said to be so divine that when she was doing laundry at the riverside the fish in the water would be so self-abased that they would sink away from the surface. Xi
Xi Shi was the most stunning of the re- nowned Four Beauties of ancient China. She was born Shi Yiguang in Zhuluo Village of Zhejiang Province. It was from her birthplace that she got her later name, meaning ＂West Shi,＂ as she lived in the western part of the vil- lage. Her beauty was said to be so divine that when she was doing laundry at the riverside the fish in the water would be so self-obosed that they would sink away from the surface. XI Shi was not only known for her exquisite looks but also for her unwavering loyalty toher country, the State of Yue. When Yue was defeated in war and forced to become a tributary of the State of Wu, Xi Shi was of- fered as tribute to Fuchai, king of Wu, for the sake of her country. Bewitched by Xi Shi＇s loveliness, Fuchai neglected state affairs and Wu gradually weakened.
