The theme of "Water Margin" is primarily the struggle for justice and the triumph of the righteous over tyranny. This classic Chinese novel, written by Shi Nai'an in the 14th century, depicts a group of outcasts and rebels who band together to fight against corrupt officials and a corrupt government. The narrative is centered around the concept of "righteousness" and the idea that those who are oppressed have a moral duty to rise up and fight for justice.

The novel's themes are further supported by the historical context in which it was written. During the Yuan Dynasty, the ruling Mongols were seen as foreign occupiers, and many Chinese people felt oppressed. "Water Margin" reflects this sentiment by portraying the protagonists as heroes who stand up against the tyranny of the ruling class. The novel's emphasis on the struggle for justice is evident in the characters' motivations and actions.

One of the key themes of "Water Margin" is the concept of "the just cause." The rebels are portrayed as fighting for a just cause, which is to restore order and fairness to a society that has been corrupted by greed and corruption. This theme is exemplified by the character of Song Jiang, the leader of the rebels, who is constantly driven by a desire to bring justice to the world.

Another important theme is the idea of the "common man" rising up against the elite. The novel's protagonists are a diverse group of characters, including farmers, soldiers, and scholars, who come together to fight against the corrupt officials. This reflects the belief that anyone, regardless of their background, can rise up and fight for a just cause.

Data from various scholarly analyses of "Water Margin" support these themes. For instance, a study by David Roy, a renowned translator of Chinese literature, notes that the novel "is a powerful expression of the popular will to resist oppression and tyranny." Another study by Pauline Yu, a professor of Chinese literature, suggests that the novel's portrayal of the rebels as heroes who fight for justice resonates with readers because it reflects the common people's desire for a better society.

In conclusion, the theme of "Water Margin" is the struggle for justice and the triumph of the righteous over tyranny. This theme is supported by the historical context of the Yuan Dynasty and the novel's portrayal of the protagonists as heroes fighting for a just cause. The novel's emphasis on the "common man" rising up against the elite resonates with readers and continues to be relevant today.