The Affaire in the Swing Age (), also known as The Dynasty or Love Against Kingship, is a 2003 Chinese television series based on the historical novel Jiangshan Fengyu Qing by Zhu Sujin, who was also the screenwriter for the series. The series depicts the events of the transition from the Ming dynasty to the Qing dynasty, focusing on the lives of historical figures such as Li Zicheng, Wu Sangui, Chen Yuanyuan, the Chongzhen Emperor, and Huangtaiji.
Synopsis In 1627, the Chongzhen Emperor becomes the ruler of the Ming Empire with the support of the eunuch Wang Cheng'en. The hardworking Chongzhen Emperor strives to save the declining empire from collapse, seeking to restore it to its former glory. However, it seems impossible for him to achieve his goals because the Ming government has been plagued by corruption long before his time, and the people have also started a rebellion under the leadership of Li Zicheng. On the northern frontier, Huangtaiji, the ambitious ruler of the Manchu-led Later Jin, is actively preparing for an invasion of the Ming Empire.
Yuan Chonghuan and Hong Chengchou are capable generals appointed by the Chongzhen Emperor to counter the Manchu invaders, but they meet different fates. The emperor executes Yuan Chonghuan after believing false accusations that Yuan is plotting against him. Hong Chengchou surrenders to the Manchus after his defeat at the Battle of Songjin, and joins them in attacking Ming forces.
In 1644, Li Zicheng's rebels capture the Ming capital, Beijing. The Chongzhen Emperor commits suicide by hanging himself on a tree. Shortly after, the Ming general Wu Sangui defects to the Manchus after learning that the rebels have seized his beloved concubine, Chen Yuanyuan. Wu Sangui opens Shanhai Pass, allowing the Manchus to enter and overrun the rest of the Ming Empire.
Cast
Production The Affaire in the Swing Age is one of the earlier large-scale historical dramas set in the Ming dynasty to be produced in mainland China, following the success of Qing dynasty dramas such as Yongzheng Dynasty (1999) and Kangxi Dynasty (2001). Generally, it is considered historically accurate despite taking some liberties with historical figures and events. The sets, costumes and designs were rather elaborate for an early 2000s production. The series has significantly influenced later Ming dynasty dramas such as Ming Dynasty in 1566 (2007) and Ming Dynasty (2019).
Music "Dream of Peace" () by Han Lei, the opening theme song "The Bian River Flows" () by Han Lei and Liu Jin, the closing theme song "Red Lips, Woman's Love" () by Liu Jin "Jade Cloud Sky" () by Liu Jin
External links The Affaire in the Swing Age on Sina.com The Affaire in the Swing Age on Xinhuanet.com