▌周家望 大都南墙 北京明清贡院，为元礼部衙门，至今仅存贡院西街、贡院东街、贡院头条、贡院二条几处地名，余迹荡 然无存。明天顺七年二月会试，贡院失火，因考官迂腐，命贡院上锁，致九十名举人葬身火海。姑苏诗 人奚昌尝叹"壮心一夜尽成灰"。英宗特赐罹难者皆进士出身，葬于朝阳门外，名"天下英才之墓"。死后 方成天子门生，堪称奇谭。 至万历朝，张居正修葺贡院，改木栅为砖瓦，回禄之灾难再。科举废除，新学百余年，贡院旧址斗转星 移，已成中国社会科学院、长安大戏院、四川驻京办等所在地。余每至戏院观剧或赴川办餐叙，行于贡 院古槐之下，常发幽古之思。 "心想事成" 众所周知，北土城路、西土城路皆元大都城垣遗址，今尚有残垣存焉。二十余年前，北大人文地理泰斗 侯仁之教授曾至土城遗址考察元代水关构造，余为记者在侧。彼时侯先生已逾鲐背，腿脚不便，由其弟 子岳升阳博士推轮椅随行侍奉。然元大都南城垣位置，今人知之者鲜矣。盖其地貌久湮，几难辨认。唯 东单附近邮通街西侧有一高坡，乃元大都南城垣遗存也。三十年前，此为明清时西裱褙胡同，北京日报 社坐落于胡同中段路南；于谦祠坐落于胡同东口路北。自于谦祠向东下坡，即南北向之邮通街。西裱褙 胡同路面高出 ...

Core Viewpoint - The documentary "Zuo Zongtang Recovers Xinjiang" highlights the historical significance and military prowess of Zuo Zongtang, emphasizing his dedication to national unity and his struggles against separatist forces [1][2]. Group 1: Historical Context - Zuo Zongtang, a prominent figure among the "Four Great Ministers of the Qing Dynasty," is portrayed as a national hero whose legacy has been distorted by entertainment and rumors [1][2]. - The documentary showcases Zuo's determination, famously stating, "It would be a fortunate thing for a sixty-year-old man to die on the battlefield" [1]. Group 2: Personal Background and Education - Contrary to popular belief, Zuo Zongtang was not a natural genius; he faced multiple failures in the imperial examination system, which he eventually abandoned [2][3]. - His early education was marked by hardship, and he began studying formal literature at the age of nine, focusing on rote memorization [3][4]. Group 3: Career and Achievements - Zuo Zongtang's career was characterized by his commitment to agricultural studies and military service, leading to significant contributions in various administrative roles [6][7]. - He was appointed as a military leader during critical periods, including the Taiping Rebellion, where he demonstrated strategic acumen [10][11]. Group 4: Personal Values and Ethics - Zuo Zongtang maintained a reputation for integrity, with no allegations of embezzlement or corruption throughout his career, despite the financial challenges faced by his military campaigns [12][13]. - His lifestyle reflected a commitment to frugality and public service, often prioritizing the welfare of his soldiers over personal gain [13][14]. Group 5: Legacy and Historical Interpretation - The narrative surrounding Zuo Zongtang has been influenced by cultural myths and misconceptions, necessitating a reevaluation of his true character and contributions [2][16]. - Scholars argue that Zuo's traditional values sometimes hindered his ability to adapt to modern developments, reflecting a broader tension within late Qing governance [15][16].