The event where Cao Cao is arrested and released by Chen Gong is a fictional event. In the novel, Cao Cao fled after his failed assassination attempt on Dong Zhuo but notices had been put around the area for Cao Cao’s arrest. Cao Cao was spotted by a county magistrate named Chen Gong and was arrested. Chen Gong had initially wanted to send Cao Cao back to Dong Zhuo and claim his reward, but later he decided to release Cao Cao and follow him out of righteousness.
What happened historically?[]
- Historically, Chen Gong didn't enter Cao Cao's service until 191.
- Historically, Cao Cao was indeed arrested and released, but not by Chen Gong