Day 6: Wuhan-Shaoshan: Legacy of great poet Qu Yuan for modern China

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We turn now to the life and death more than two thousand years ago of Qu Yuan, who became known as China's first great patriotic poet. He's still revered as a far-sighted and brave politician and an advocate of reform. Our reporter Yang Jinghao filed this story.

A literary giant in Chinese history. Some 2,300 years later, Qu Yuan's poetry still has a profound influence. And the Quzi Temple built in Miluo, a city in central China's Hunan Province where he spent his last few years, is a site of pilgrimage for people paying respect to the great poet.

YANG JINGHAO MILUO, HUNAN PROVINCE "It's said this is where Qu Yuan lived during his time in Miluo. It's when he finished most of his great works that reflect his politics and patriotism, such as the Li Sao."

But his legacy goes far beyond this. A patriotic poet who began a tradition of romanticism in Chinese literature, Qu Yuan was also an outspoken politician during the Warring States Period.

As an official in charge of internal and diplomatic affairs of the state of Chu, he advocated bold political reforms and a strict legal system.

Liu Shilin is a local resident and an expert on Qu Yuan. He says many of Qu's proposals are still relevant today.

LIU SHILIN EXPERT ON QU YUAN RESEARCH "Though it has been more than 2,000 years, many of Qu Yuan's ideas are not outdated. For example, he was strongly against corruption, which is in line with today's sweeping campaign launched by the central government."

But his well-intended advice met with strong opposition. Qu Yuan was slandered and then exiled by the King of his state. He was filled with great sorrow, but remained loyal to his country and the King.

YANG JINGHAO MILUO, HUNAN PROVINCE "Upon learning that the capital of his country was occupied by the state of Qin, Qu Yuan chose to take his life by throwing himself into the Miluo River just from here. It showed his despair of being unable to serve his motherland."

Since then, the Dragon Boat Festival has been held annually to commemorate Qu Yuan's death. Liu Shilin says that during the festival, people should make an effort to learn more about Qu Yuan's spirit today.

LIU SHILIN EXPERT ON QU YUAN RESEARCH "The young generation is the backbone of a country. But some of the young people today lack the great character that Qu Yuan possessed, such as his patriotism, the perseverance to seek truth and the courage to fight against evil."

Liu says Qu Yuan's tragedy is also a lesson to any country – that only proactive reforms can lead to peace and prosperity.

YJH, CGTN, Miluo, Hunan Province.