As William Shakespeare is to literature in English, so is poet Du Fu to the Chinese literary tradition. Aimed at introducing the charm and 1 of tradition Chinese literature to viewers around the world, a new BBC documentary invited famous British actor Lan McKellen 2 15 of Du's poems that have been translated into English.

The3 film describes the poet's life experiences in detail. Born in 712, Du4 under the reign of the Tang Emperor Xuanzong (713--756), a time marked by extraordinary prosperity (繁荣) and cultural achievement.

However, as the An Lushan rebellion(安史之乱) of 755 floored the empire, Du had to5 his family on the road as refugee(难民), and endured starvation(忍饥挨饿) and suffering. Through ups and downs, the poet never stopped6 and about 1,500 poems7 over the ages. In these poems, he poured out his worry about his country and people as well as the8 of celebrating the simple joys of life.

Chinese people really value the recording of history and Du is9 than anyone at reflecting history in his poetry. That's because historical events are mirrored(反映) in10 own life and spiritual journey. Even though he never held11 high position in the government, Du still cared about common people. For example, in the poem My Cottage proofed By Autumn Gale(《茅屋为秋风所破歌》), he wrote that "Could I get mansions covering ten thousand mils, I'd house all scholars poor and make them beam(喜笑颜开) with smiles". That's12 he was praised as a Poet Sage by13 generations. A difficult life and his spirit of care about the world helped him create so14 masterpieces(杰作).

Without doubt, Du is a cultural symbol of ancient China, but his brilliant15 and spirits have also encouraged people outside of China. As the documentary noted, his work represents a valuable cultural heritage(遗产) for the whole world, not just China.