520 __ |a This book takes *The Diary of Hou Qizeng* as its starting point, narrating the mindset and deeds of the Jiading literati group during the Ming-Qing transition, represented by Hou Qizeng’s family and their circle. Comprising eight chapters, each focuses on one or several key figures, recounting their personal experiences amid the dynastic upheaval. The work aims to construct biographical accounts for the numerous individuals appearing in *The Diary*, and through this, delve deeply into the life-and-death choices, loyalist mentality, the plight of women, and the conduct of teachers, friends, and servants—such as those of Xia Wanchun, Chen Zilong, Hou Tongzeng, Hou Qizeng, Lu Yuanfu, and others—amidst the overwhelming tide of their times. By exploring these dramatic and tension-filled historical issues, the book reconstructs the life experiences and value-driven decisions of ordinary individuals caught in the turmoil of great change.