Spies Character Analysis

A whole chapter of The Art of War is dedicated to spies, who, aside from the general, have the most important role when it comes to warfare, according to Master Sun. If not for spies, the general would be hard pressed to glean information about the enemy’s position, disposition, and temperament. There are many forms of spies: “Local, Internal, Double, Dead, and Live.” Each has their particular benefits when it comes to outwitting the enemy, as well as downsides for the spies themselves. Master Sun advises rewarding spies highly for their services, the better to earn their loyalty. They should also be the general’s closest confidante.