History of Song
The ideology behind the "History of Song" is that of Neo-Confucianism, with coverage of the Confucian doctrines of loyalty, righteousness and ethics regarding the well-known scholars Zhou Dunyi, Cheng Hao, Cheng Yi, Zhang Zai and Zhu Xi amongst others. No less than 278 individuals feature in the section on loyalty and righteousness (). Qing dynasty historian Qian Daxin () once said: "The "History of Song" esteems neo-confucianism, especially the school of Zhu Xi". Its compilation follows the principles of Confucian life. Fine logic and language is used to convey morality whilst eschewing utilitarianism. The book's style is also highly regarded and considered a model example. Wang Anshi's Xining Reforms () are rejected by the "History of Song" whilst political reform campaigners including Lu Huiqing (), Zeng Bu () and Zhang Dun () feature in the section on traitors and rebels; Shi Miyuan (), however, despite his involvement in the suicide of Emperor Ningzong of Song's eldest heir, does not feature in this section or indeed the entire "History of Song". Famous general Wang Jianzai (), regardless of his valiant combat record, is also omitted as are many other individuals involved in Mongol defeats by the Song.