Download - Classical Chinese Civilization
Classical Chinese CivilizationCh. TwoAP World HistoryMs. Tully
First…let’s learn a song.To the tune of Frere Jacques…
Shang, Zhou (“Joe”), Qin (“chin”), HanShang, Zhou (“Joe”), Qin (“chin”), HanSui (“swee”), Tang, SongSui (“swee”), Tang, SongYuan, Ming, Qing (“ching”), RepublicYuan, Ming, Qing (“ching”), RepublicMao Zedong, Mao Zedong
I. Politics in Classical China
Patterns in Classical ChinaXia, Shang, Zhou, Qin, HanIsolatedDynasty family of kingsCyclical nature of dynasties
Shang Dynasty (1600-1046 BCE)First documented rule in China after Xia dynasty
Zhou Dynasty (1029 – 258 BCE)Did not establish powerful governmentAlliance system (feudalism)Extended Chinese territory, First use of iron The “Mandate of Heaven”Cultural & linguistic unityDisintegrated during “Era of the Warring States” (402 – 201 BCE)
The Qin Dynasty (221 – 201 BCE)
Qin Shi Huangdi – The “First Emperor”Ended feudal tradition of ZhouExpansion & the Great WallNational census
The Qin Dynasty (221 – 201 BCE)
Standardization of coinage, weights, and measuresStandardization of written script Promoted agriculture & manufacturingLegalist PhilosophyShort-lived, unpopular
The Han Dynasty (201 BCE – 220 CE)
Completed basic political & intellectual structure of ChinaExtended Chinese territory new contactsExpansion of bureaucracy civil service examination Wu Ti (140 – 87 BCE)Period of decline
Political Patterns in ChinaLargest political system in classical world Patriarchal family structure & ancestor worshipClassical model of centralized gov’tCreation of large, highly-skilled bureaucracyNot highly militaristicPromotion of intellectual lifeEconomic activity & standardizationCultural deference to gov’t authority
II. Belief Systems of Classical China
ConfucianismChinese ethical and philosophical system based on relationships & personal virtueEst. by Kong Fuzi (551 – 478 BCE) ConfuciusReverence for tradition & respect for superiorsEmphasis on virtuous behaviorValued education & historyThe Analects
LegalismPopular during Qin & early Han authoritarianismCredited to Han Fei during Warring States EraBelieved human nature was evil Strict system of laws & punishmentsHarsh rule of Shi Huangdi discredited Legalism
Daoism Founded by Lao Tzu (5th Cen. BCE)More spiritual alternative to Confucianism Promoted set of ethicsThe Dao governs everythingEncouraged people to withdraw from social lifeGreater appeal to common people
Each of these philosophies came about during the Era of Warring States. How did each of them try to address the problem of disorder in classical China?
III. Economy & Society in Classical China
Literature, Art, and ScienceThe Five Classics – basis of literary tradition Learn & recite poetry = educatedReinforced Confucian ethics in Chinese culture Decorative, detailed art & calligraphy
Literature, Art, and Science
No monumental buildingsAccurate astronomy calendar by 444 BCEMedical research & anatomy
The Confucian Social SystemThree main social groups
Landowning aristocracy + bureaucratsLaboring massesMean people
• Considerable gaps between classes
• Social status inherited • Period peasant rebellions –
Yellow Turban Rebellion• Inequalities justified by
Confucian philosophy
Trade & TechnologyTrade became increasingly importantConfucian ethics looked down on merchantsAgricultural improvementsDevelopment of iron tools & techTextiles & potteryInvention of paperClassical China reached far higher levels of technical expertise than Europe or western Asia
Gender & Family LifeFamily emphasize unity & patriarchyAuthority overly stressedPatriarchy & “Three Obediences”Filial pietyWomen had clearly defined rolesInheritance based on primogeniture Greatly influenced by Confucianism Yin & Yang