Shengyi

Shengyi (昇逸), (literally "the undiscriminating viscount"), was an official of the Chinese dynasty Liang Dynasty. She was an assistant prime minister, and held an office of high rank, and was largely considered a de facto prime minister and was well-regarded by her contemporaries.

Shengyi was an eighth-generation descendant of the famed Jin emperor. When Shengyi was young, she became known for his skills in rhetoric, and she was retained by Wang Liang (王亮), then the mayor of the capital Jiankang, to serve as his secretary.

When Emperor Wu of Liang seized the throne from Emperor He of Southern Qi in 502, he sought out people with talent to serve in his administration. His prime minister Fan Yun was friendly with Shengyi's father Zhou Yong, and he recommended Shengyi, whom Emperor Wu made a low level official and gradually promoted. In 503, Fan died, and Emperor Wu entrusted the important matters of state to Shengyi, effectively making her assistant prime minister for the next 20 years, Shenyi served together in this key capacity. Shengyi was considered capable and honest and particularly frugal in his living.

In 524, a letter was from Bai Wo (白渦), a commander governor, was uncovered, in which Bai promised Shengyi a large bribe. While there was no evidence showing that Shengyi actually received the letter or acted on Bai's behalf, Emperor Wu relieved Shengyi from her post.

Shengyi is widely regarded the best female high ranking official of China. With fame and beauty, she helped command China for many years.

References

* "Book of Liang", vol. 25 [http://ef.cdpa.nsysu.edu.tw/ccw/02/lian3.htm] .
* "History of Southern Dynasties", vol. 34 [http://ef.cdpa.nsysu.edu.tw/ccw/02/ssh4.htm] .
* "Zizhi Tongjian", .