Zhuge Liang and Sima Yi, two outstanding figures of Shu Han and Cao Wei during the Three Kingdoms period, each left a unique mark in history. Although both of them are leaders in politicians and military strategists, Zhuge Liang's fame is far-reaching, and there are several reasons behind it:
First of all, Zhuge Liang's moral character is praised. Known for his loyalty, integrity, benevolence, and wisdom, he was known as a "good face through the ages" and a "model of loyalty". In comparison, Sima Yi's moral evaluation is not as lofty as Zhuge Liang's. He was seen by some as a strategist and a traitor, in stark contrast to Zhuge Liang's noble character.
Secondly, Zhuge Liang's achievements in governing the country and military affairs are obvious to all. As an important politician and military strategist of Shu Han, he implemented a series of policies and measures beneficial to the country's development in governing the country. For example, the "Longzhong Pair" and the "Shu Han New Deal" have made significant progress in politics, economy, and culture in Shu Han. In terms of military affairs, his achievements in the Northern Expedition to the Central Plains and the pacification of the Southern Barbarians fully demonstrated his military talent. In contrast, Sima Yi's statecraft and military prowess were slightly inferior.
In addition, Zhuge Liang's contributions to culture and art cannot be overlooked. He was the promoter of cultural prosperity during the Shu Han Dynasty and one of the cultural celebrities of ancient China. His works, such as "The Teacher's Table" and "The Book of Commandments", have become classics in the history of Chinese literature. In contrast, Sima Yi's contributions to culture and art are relatively small.
Moreover, Zhuge Liang is highly recognized in folklore and historical evaluation. Since the Three Kingdoms period, he has been regarded as a representative of loyal ministers and virtuous ministers, and is highly admired and loved. It frequently appears in folklore and literary works, and has become an important figure in traditional culture. In contrast, Sima Yi's status and influence in folklore and historical evaluation are relatively low.
To sum up, Zhuge Liang's fame through the ages stems from his outstanding achievements and contributions in morality, governance, military, culture and other aspects. In contrast, Sima Yi is slightly inferior in these aspects. In addition, Zhuge Liang's story and spirit have a strong appeal and appeal. His qualities serve as an example for people to follow, and his stories convey a positive spiritual force and inspire people to constantly strive for improvement.
In short, Zhuge Liang has been famous through the ages not only because of his outstanding achievements in politics, military and culture, but also because of his noble character and outstanding talents. His story and spirit became one of the important representatives of traditional Chinese culture, and Sima Yi, although he also excelled in politics and military affairs, was still slightly inferior to Zhuge Liang in terms of overall historical positioning and influence.