In 1359, the construction of the Great Wall of China continued under the Yuan Dynasty, particularly in the northern regions. This monumental project aimed to protect against invasions from nomadic tribes and solidify the power of the Yuan rulers. The wall's construction not only represented military strategy but also the cultural and political aspirations of the empire, influencing Chinese identity for centuries to come.

The Great Wall has been a symbol of strength and endurance in Chinese literature, inspiring poets like Li Bai and Du Fu. Its presence in poetry reflects themes of protection, isolation, and the human struggle against nature and conflict, resonating deeply in the works of later poets who grappled with similar themes of resilience and national identity.