Three Kingdoms episode 1 Recap and FAQ
Episode Summary
In the final years of the Eastern Han dynasty, the empire faces turmoil with the Yellow Turban Rebellion and the rise of Dong Zhuo, who seizes power by deposing Emperor Shao. Amidst the chaos, Cao Cao emerges as a cunning figure, plotting to assassinate Dong Zhuo under the guise of loyalty. Despite gaining close access with a deadly dagger, Cao Cao's plan fails when Dong Zhuo awakens, forcing Cao to flee and igniting a manhunt led by Lü Bu. The episode showcases the complex interplay of ambition, loyalty, and betrayal at the dawn of the Three Kingdoms era.
Full Episode S00E01 Recap
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Emperor Shao of Han?
Emperor Shao, Liu Bian, was a fourteen-year-old who succeeded the throne of the Eastern Han dynasty in A.D. 189.
What led to the rise of Dong Zhuo?
Dong Zhuo was secretly ordered by Commander-in-Chief He Jin to lead his army towards the capital, which led to him deposing Emperor Shao and establishing himself as the Chancellor.
What was the Yellow Turban Rebellion?
The Yellow Turban Rebellion was a peasant revolt that marked the beginning of the period of turmoil in the Han dynasty.
Who is Cao Cao?
Cao Cao is portrayed as a cunning and ambitious official, initially seen as Dong Zhuo's lackey but later revealed to have plans to overthrow him.
How did Cao Cao plan to assassinate Dong Zhuo?
Cao Cao planned to use a gifted dagger, known for its sharpness, to assassinate Dong Zhuo by gaining close access under the pretense of loyalty.
What was the significance of Lord Wang Yun's birthday banquet?
Lord Wang Yun's birthday banquet was a covert meeting for discussing plans against Dong Zhuo, under the guise of a celebration.
What role did Lü Bu play in the story?
Lü Bu was Dong Zhuo's adopted son and a formidable warrior, who was tasked with capturing Cao Cao after the failed assassination attempt.
Why did Dong Zhuo trust Cao Cao?
Dong Zhuo trusted Cao Cao due to his apparent loyalty and the manipulation of his reputation and words by Cao Cao himself.
What happened to Cao Cao after the failed assassination attempt?
Cao Cao fled the capital, leading to Dong Zhuo ordering a manhunt for him, specifically tasking Lü Bu with capturing him.
Did Cao Cao succeed in his mission to kill Dong Zhuo?
No, Cao Cao's assassination attempt failed when Dong Zhuo awoke unexpectedly, leading to Cao Cao's escape.
What is the Seven Star Dagger?
The Seven Star Dagger is described as a very sharp and valuable weapon that Cao Cao planned to use to assassinate Dong Zhuo.
How did Dong Zhuo react to the assassination attempt?
Dong Zhuo was initially unaware of the attempt on his life until he realized Cao Cao's true intentions, leading to a frantic effort to capture him.
What does the episode reveal about the political climate of the Han dynasty?
The episode reveals a period of significant turmoil, betrayal, and the struggle for power within the Han dynasty.
How does the story contribute to the narrative of the Three Kingdoms period?
The story sets the stage for the conflict and division that characterize the Three Kingdoms period, highlighting key figures and their motivations.
What is the fate of the Han dynasty as depicted in the episode?
The Han dynasty is depicted as being on the brink of collapse, with internal strife and power struggles signaling the beginning of the end.
