Lin Chong (Chinese: 林冲; pinyin: Lín Chōng), nicknamed "Leopard Head" (豹子头, Bàozi Tóu), is a fictional character and one of the most prominent protagonists in Water Margin, one of the Four Great Classical Novels of Chinese literature. He ranks sixth among the 36 Heavenly Spirits, the highest-ranking outlaws of Liangshan Marsh.
Lin Chong is initially introduced as an instructor of the Imperial Guards (禁军教头) in the imperial capital, Dongjing (modern-day Kaifeng). He is a master of martial arts, particularly skilled with the spear, and is known for his integrity and upright character. His tragic downfall is orchestrated by the corrupt Grand Marshal Gao Qiu, who covets Lin Chong's wife. Gao Qiu schemes to frame Lin Chong for various crimes, leading to his exile and subsequent attempts on his life.
Biography and Transformation:
- Framing and Exile: Gao Qiu's godson, Gao Ya'nei, attempts to rape Lin Chong's wife, Zhang Shi. Lin Chong intervenes, but Gao Qiu uses his influence to frame Lin Chong for carrying a knife into the White Tiger Hall, a restricted area. Lin Chong is sentenced to exile in Cangzhou.
- Wild Boar Forest: During his journey to exile, Lin Chong is nearly murdered in Wild Boar Forest by two escorts bribed by Gao Qiu. He is saved by Lu Zhishen, a close friend and former monk, who vows to protect him.
- Cangzhou and Grass Camp: In Cangzhou, Lin Chong is assigned to manage the military's grass camp. Gao Qiu, however, sends another henchman, Lu Qian, to burn down the camp with Lin Chong inside. Lin Chong narrowly escapes and, realizing there is no longer any hope for justice or a peaceful life, kills Lu Qian and other assailants.
- Joining Liangshan: With nowhere else to go, Lin Chong is forced to become an outlaw. He seeks refuge at Liangshan Marsh, which is then led by Wang Lun. Wang Lun, fearful of Lin Chong's prowess and popularity, is reluctant to accept him. Lin Chong eventually joins the band after Chao Gai and his friends arrive at Liangshan and depose Wang Lun, with Lin Chong playing a crucial role in Wang Lun's assassination.
Role in Liangshan: After joining Liangshan, Lin Chong quickly establishes himself as one of the most formidable warriors. He becomes one of the "Five Tiger Generals" (五虎将) of Liangshan, a group of the most skilled military commanders under Song Jiang. He participates in many significant battles, often playing a decisive role with his spear-fighting expertise and strategic insights. His combat skills are frequently highlighted in individual duels against enemy generals.
Character and Legacy: Lin Chong is a complex character who embodies the theme of "forced into banditry" (逼上梁山, bī shàng Liángshān), a central idea in Water Margin. He represents the good man driven to crime by a corrupt and unjust society. His personal tragedy and transformation from an upright imperial official to a skilled outlaw resonate deeply with readers, making him one of the most memorable and sympathetic figures in Chinese classical literature.