The Grand Examination

The first Grand Examination was a cornerstone of the new dynasty's philosophy. Thousands of scholars from across Dara were brought to Pan, sealed in individual stalls for three days, and made to answer a single policy question posed by the Emperor.[TWOS-4]The Examination became a major political event. At the final stage, the Palace Examination, the scholar Zomi Kidosu delivered a blistering critique of the system itself, arguing its reliance on classical logograms was a barrier to the poor and perpetuated class privilege. Her speech sparked a riot among failed scholars.[TWOS-15]Years later, Zomi, now Farsight Secretary, attempted to reform the exam by requiring essays in the vernacular. This sparked another rebellion of scholars, which Empress Jia used to teach Zomi a harsh lesson about the power of tradition, leading to Zomi's public disgrace and resignation.[TVT-29]