With the finale of Joy of Life 2, fans are buzzing with curiosity about what happens to the “Four Sons of the Fan Family.” Each of these characters, Shi Chanli, Hou Jichang, Yang Wanli, and Cheng Jiasen, took unique paths in life, and viewers are eager to know who emerged as the winner.
Shi Chanli: The Politician and Spy
Shi Chanli didn’t pass the spring examination, but he caught Fan Xian’s eye due to a tragic event in Shijia Town. He became Fan Xian’s trusted confidant and a key player in his private intelligence agency. Shi Chanli’s skills in intelligence gathering and analysis were exceptional, and he even won the heart of the beautiful Sang Wen. By the end of the series, Shi Chanli had established himself as a significant figure in politics and intelligence, making him one of the most successful among the four sons.
Hou Jichang: The Betrayer
Hou Jichang was known for his legal talent and was one of the top candidates in Kyoto. However, his ambitious nature led him to betray Fan Xian for his own career advancement. When Fan Xian lost his positions due to a political scandal, Hou Jichang quickly aligned himself with He Zongwei, who was favored by the emperor. This move secured his career in the short term but cost him the trust and respect of his peers. Hou Jichang’s betrayal highlighted the moral complexities within the series and left viewers pondering the consequences of his choices.
Yang Wanli: The Principled Official
Yang Wanli, a man of high moral standards, played a pivotal role in Fan Xian’s determination to bring fairness to the Spring Examination. His integrity and principles earned him a top spot in the examination, and he was later assigned to important projects like river embankment construction and flood control. Yang Wanli’s steady rise in politics, driven by his talent and moral character, won him respect and trust, making him a beloved figure among viewers.
Cheng Jialin: The Persistent Scholar
Cheng Jialin, who failed the imperial examinations multiple times, finally succeeded in the Spring Examination under Fan Xian’s guidance. Though his career was not extensively explored in the series, he was promoted to magistrate of Suzhou in the original novel. Cheng Jialin’s perseverance and eventual success provided a sense of fulfillment, even if his character didn’t receive as much screen time.
Who is the Winner?
Among the four sons, Shi Chanli stands out as the most successful. His role as Fan Xian’s confidant and his achievements in politics and intelligence, coupled with his romantic success, make him a clear winner. His journey from a tragic background to a position of power and influence showcases his resilience and strategic thinking.
However, each character’s path offers valuable lessons. Hou Jichang’s betrayal serves as a cautionary tale about the costs of ambition, while Yang Wanli’s steady rise exemplifies the rewards of integrity. Cheng Jialin’s story reminds us of the importance of perseverance.
As we await Joy of Life Season 3, we look forward to seeing how the final fates of these characters unfold. The series masterfully intertwines their stories, leaving us reflecting on the true measures of success and the complexities of their choices.
In the end, Joy of Life 2 leaves us with a rich tapestry of characters and moral dilemmas, echoing the intricacies of real life. Each of the “Fan Family Four Sons” has their own definition of success, and their journeys resonate deeply with the audience.