Beyond the Heavens

📖 SYNOPSIS

"Beyond the Heavens" offers a unique perspective on the Three Kingdoms period, centering on Cao Cao, the last Chancellor of the Eastern Han Dynasty. The anime diverges from traditional portrayals, presenting Cao Cao as the protagonist and drawing inspiration from the historical Records of Three Kingdoms, rather than the popular novel, Romance of the Three Kingdoms. This shift in perspective diminishes the role of the traditional hero, Liu Bei, and highlights Cao Cao's ambition to reform China.

The story explores Cao Cao's desire to break from old systems and embrace pragmatism, often placing him at odds with Confucianism and its adherents. While primarily based on historical accounts, the anime incorporates elements from the novel, including characters like Diao Chan and anachronistic weapons like Guan Yu's Green Dragon Crescent Blade. This blend of historical accuracy and fictional elements creates a compelling narrative about leadership, societal change, and the clash between tradition and progress.