南冠楚囚 | a captive or prisoner of war

nán南guān冠chǔ楚qiú囚

A prisoner of war, especially one from the State of Chu in ancient China; generally refers to any prisoner or captive.

那位被误抓的旅行者，如同南冠楚囚，在异国他乡的拘留所里度过了数日。

The mistakenly arrested traveler, like a 'Nanguan Chuqiu', spent several days in a detention center in a foreign land.

Era:

Ancient

Frequency:

Story:

In 584 BC, King Gong of Chu launched a military campaign against the State of Zheng. Duke Jing of Jin, coming to Zheng's aid, severely defeated the Chu army. Among the captives was a Chu official named Zhong Yi.

He was imprisoned in the army's storeroom. Every day, Zhong Yi would wear his distinct Chu cap and stand facing south, yearning for his homeland.

Two years later, Duke Jing of Jin noticed his steadfast loyalty. He invited Zhong Yi to play the zither, and, moved by his character, personally released him.

Duke Jing hoped Zhong Yi would return to Chu and help foster peace between their two states.

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