Defining chu : image and reality in ancient China / edited by Constance A. Cook and John S. Major.

Format:

Book

Contributor:

Major, John S.

Cook, Constance A.

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Civilization.

Historiography.

China--Civilization--To 221 B.C.

China.

China--Civilization--To 221 B.C--Historiography.

Historiography--China.

Physical Description:

ix, 254 pages, 8 unnumbered pages of plates : illustrations (some color), maps ; 26 cm

Place of Publication:

Honolulu : University of Hawaiʻi Press, [1999]

Summary:

Scholars agree that the "southern" culture of China, roughly identifiable with the state of Chu during the period between 700 and 200 B.C. is of great importance in the subsequent development of Chinese culture. This book, the first in a Western language to attempt such a broad and in-depth analysis of a single Chinese state, traces the evolution of the Chu from a vassal state of Zhou in the Spring and Autumn period to its rise and fall as a great hegemonic kingdom in the Warring States period and its eventual resurgence in the early Hah dynasty.

Defining Chu begins with an overview of the historical geography, an outline of archaeological evidence for Chu history, and an appreciation of Chu art. Following chapters examine issues of state and society: the ideology of the ruling class, legal procedures, popular culture, and daily life. The final section surveys Chu religion and literature and includes an analysis of the Chuci, the great anthology of Chu poetry, and its impact on mainstream Chinese literature. A translation of the "Chu Silk Manuscript, " a document that has intrigued scholars since its discovery in Changsha some sixty years ago, is appended.

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references (pages 213-238) and index.

ISBN:

0824818857

OCLC:

41096308