[ Talented son of Xiahou Yuan, refused to study but died at 18.
Officer Details
Wade-Giles: Hsiahou Ch‘êng (Shu-ch‘üan)
Simplified Chinese: Undefined
Family and Relationships
Xiahou Yuan (Father); Xiahou Heng, Xiahou Ba, Xiahou Rong, Xiahou He, Xiahou Hui, Xiahou Wei (Brothers); Xiahou Dun, Xiahou Lian (Uncle)
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Xiahou Cheng’s biography
At end of father Yuan’s biography in Shiyu
Biography
Xiahou Yuan’s third son, Xiahou Cheng, had the familiar name Shuquan. When he was just a small child, he would often gather up other children, and lead them like a general. Their games would always be related to military affairs, and those who violated the rules would be whipped or beaten—none would disobey him. Xiahou Yuan held him in secret admiration, and told him to study “The Records of Xiang Yu” and various war manuals. However, the young man refused, saying, “If I am able [to be a general] then so be it, why should I have to imitate others?” When he was 16, he went hunting with Xiahou Yuan, and saw a tiger running in front of them. Xiahou Cheng galloped forward to chase it, despite everyone’s warnings. He shot it dead with one arrow. His fame reached Cao Cao’s ears, and he held his hand and said gladly, “I’m glad to have you here!” Xiahou Cheng was great friends with Cao Pi before Cao Pi was given official rank. Whenever they had a party, he would impress all with his style and learning. Even those skilled in rhetoric would not defeat him in debates. Thus many famous men hung out with him. He died at the age of 18.