《Ming Dynasty 1566》E42
Episode 42
Fusi Chao Prison in Beizhen is famous for its strictness and cruelty, and is known as the "No. 1 Prison in the World".This prison, located in the heart of the empire, has a unique architectural style - four stone walls, stone floors, and stone slabs on the roof, all made of granite. It has witnessed the tenacity and unyieldingness of countless loyal ministers and martyrs.
Hai Rui, the sixth-rank head of the Household Department known for his integrity, was once imprisoned here.He was imprisoned not because he committed a heinous crime, but because he dared to speak out and offended the powerful at the time.Hai Rui's imprisonment is more like a battle between power and justice, a conflict between ideals and reality.
The environment of the Fusi Imperial Prison in Beizhen was harsh. There was no sunlight all year round and the humidity was unbearable.In such an environment, it is difficult for a person's body to stay healthy, let alone being detained for a long time.However, it was in this environment that Hai Rui showed his perseverance.He not only continued to read and write in prison, but also conveyed his political opinions and determination to plead for the people through the jailer.
The emperors of the Ming Dynasty were extremely skilled at controlling their ministers. The most feared thing among them was the presence of Tiqi and spies everywhere.These spies are always monitoring the powerful ministers, and will be ruthlessly suppressed at the slightest sign of trouble.However, as a middle- and lower-level official, Hai Rui was not within the scope of their investigation.However, as soon as he entered the capital, he caused trouble in Liubiju and attracted the attention of Emperor Jiajing.From then on, his deeds were recorded in detail by the Criminal Department and the Zhenfu Department, and finally fell into the hands of Emperor Jiajing.
The relationship between Hai Rui and Zhao Zhenji can be described as complicated.When investigating the case of converting rice into mulberry in Zhejiang, Hai Rui, as the county magistrate, repeatedly disobeyed orders, causing Zhao Zhenji, the governor, a deep headache.Although there are conflicts between the two, Zhao Zhenji also has respect for Hai Rui's talent and integrity.After Hai Rui was imprisoned, Zhao Zhenji tried to rescue him many times, but failed.
