Bo Yikao
Chinese · mortal · shang · Recorded classification
He exists in the novel to be killed in the most unbearable way available, and the point of the atrocity is dynastic: it is the moment the Zhou can no longer be loyal subjects. The Chinese tradition has a standing category for this kind of episode — the outrage that makes rebellion filial rather than treasonous — and this is its most cited instance. The succession also depends on him: King Wu is the second son, and reigns because of what happened to the first.
Parentage
- parent: King Wen of Zhou
Sources
- Bo Yikao is the eldest son of King Wen of Zhou, killed by Daji after refusing her, his flesh baked into pies and served to his father.: Reference treatment of Bo Yikao's death in the Fengshen Yanyi. (secondary)