Vietnamese born in the early 90s could hardly forget two longstanding rivals in many Chinese historical dramas – Liu Yong and Heshen under Qing Dynasty ruled by Qianlong. Heshen was always a name which evokes the hatred amongst audiences due to his villainous manners against Liu Yong. Yet, are the traits portrayed on television all of Heshen? Heshen is inevitably famous for his evil of corruption. He was the most corrupt mandarin in Chinese history, who squeezed 10-year of government income for his own interest and pushed China into the downfall in upcoming century.

However, there is an astonishing fact that he was also serving as an imperial interpreter – a right hand for the Emperor Qianlong during his late reign. . Heshen’ ability to speak fluently 4 languages: Han, Manchu, Tibetic and Mongolic (hardly anyone knows that this man is a poet) explained why he climbed up his career ladder so fast: from an underdog to Emperor’s right-hand man. Specifically, due to his mastery of languages and glib manner, he was entrusted to prepare documents and interpret for Qianlong.

Under Qianlong’s reign, Heshen played the role as Chinese Minister of Foreign Affair, who took the responsibility to be a representative for China in speaking with Korean, British politicians and so on. Lord George McCartney's embassy to China even spent his flowery words to compliment Heshen.

Overall, Heshen was a gifted politician, businessman, interpreter and above all, a diplomat. Yet, his heart, unfortunately, was unrighteous. . How sorry for the astral talent!