World Literature:World Literature:Asia (The Far East)Asia (The Far East)

A study of tales from A study of tales from around the world.around the world.

By: Mr. FallonBy: Mr. Fallon

Some Advice About NotetakingSome Advice About Notetaking SummarizeSummarize with key words, important bits of information, with key words, important bits of information,

and headings. Do not copy verbatim (word for word).and headings. Do not copy verbatim (word for word). Write any Write any questionsquestions you have with the related content in you have with the related content in

your notes, and mark your question with a “Q”.your notes, and mark your question with a “Q”.– For example, “For example, “QQ: How long is this powerpoint?”: How long is this powerpoint?”– Write the answer beneath the question when you receive it.Write the answer beneath the question when you receive it.

Write any Write any connections or comparisonsconnections or comparisons you make with the you make with the related content and mark your connection with a “C”.related content and mark your connection with a “C”.– For example, “For example, “CC: These are like the notes I wrote in history; : These are like the notes I wrote in history;

they use same outline and layout.”they use same outline and layout.”– For example, “For example, “CC: Asia’s myths are about the balance of forces : Asia’s myths are about the balance of forces

like those of Mesopotamia!”like those of Mesopotamia!” BonusBonus: If you write at least five questions, and ask at least : If you write at least five questions, and ask at least

one of those questions personally, you will receive bonus one of those questions personally, you will receive bonus points. If you write at least five connections and points. If you write at least five connections and comparisons, you will receive bonus points.comparisons, you will receive bonus points.

One Language to Start Them AllOne Language to Start Them All

In 1786, British linguist Sir William Jones In 1786, British linguist Sir William Jones suggested that many of the languages suggested that many of the languages spoken in Europe and Asia derive from a spoken in Europe and Asia derive from a single languagesingle language, defined today as the , defined today as the ““Proto-Indo-EuropeanProto-Indo-European” language.” language.

Likely started in Mesopotamia, 3000 BCE, Likely started in Mesopotamia, 3000 BCE, spread into Persia and India: (offshoots)spread into Persia and India: (offshoots)– Sanskrit—Ancient Language of IndiaSanskrit—Ancient Language of India– Old PersianOld Persian

Possible evidence in Tower of Babel Myth? Possible evidence in Tower of Babel Myth?

Three Primary Schools of Three Primary Schools of Philosophy and Religion dominate Philosophy and Religion dominate

Asia (500’s BCE-Modern Day)Asia (500’s BCE-Modern Day) ConfucianismConfucianism—founded in China by Confucius —founded in China by Confucius

(551-479 BCE), teaches that order, discipline and (551-479 BCE), teaches that order, discipline and social stability are foundations for a good life.social stability are foundations for a good life.

TaoismTaoism—(pronounced “Dow-ism”) Founded by —(pronounced “Dow-ism”) Founded by Chinese philosopher Laotzu (500’s BCE), advises Chinese philosopher Laotzu (500’s BCE), advises people to put aside desires and devote people to put aside desires and devote themselves to contemplating Tao, the source of themselves to contemplating Tao, the source of unity in the natural world. (What Egyptian unity in the natural world. (What Egyptian “force/goddess” resembles this?)“force/goddess” resembles this?)

BuddhismBuddhism—based on the teachings of —based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama (563-483 BCE), arose first in Siddhartha Gautama (563-483 BCE), arose first in India but later migrated to China and Japan. India but later migrated to China and Japan. Buddhism calls on people to renounce their Buddhism calls on people to renounce their desires and search for enlightenment—the direct, desires and search for enlightenment—the direct, intuitive experience of divine truth.intuitive experience of divine truth.

IndiaIndia Bronze Age--“Indus Valley Civilization” flourishes Bronze Age--“Indus Valley Civilization” flourishes

between 3300-1500 BCE (named after the river between 3300-1500 BCE (named after the river that runs through the region).that runs through the region).

Iron Age--The Iron Age--The Vedic PeriodVedic Period is characterized by is characterized by Indo-Aryan culture associated with the texts of Indo-Aryan culture associated with the texts of VedasVedas, sacred to , sacred to HindusHindus, which were orally , which were orally composed in composed in Vedic SanskritVedic Sanskrit. The Vedas are some . The Vedas are some of the oldest extant texts, next to those of Egypt of the oldest extant texts, next to those of Egypt and Mesopotamia. The Vedic period lasted from and Mesopotamia. The Vedic period lasted from about 1500 BCE to 500 BCE, laid the foundations about 1500 BCE to 500 BCE, laid the foundations of Hinduism and other cultural aspects of early of Hinduism and other cultural aspects of early Indian society. Indian society.

A Brief Note on SanskritA Brief Note on Sanskrit Sanskrit was the main Indo-European language in Sanskrit was the main Indo-European language in

Northern India.Northern India. One of the most fascinating facts about Sanskrit One of the most fascinating facts about Sanskrit

is that by 600 BCE, it had become a form of is that by 600 BCE, it had become a form of “frozen” literary language. While everyday “frozen” literary language. While everyday speech changed and evolved, the written form of speech changed and evolved, the written form of Sanskrit remained in its fixed state for Sanskrit remained in its fixed state for centuriescenturies, , its grammar and syntax virtually unaffected by its grammar and syntax virtually unaffected by time. (Comparison: This would be like if we wrote time. (Comparison: This would be like if we wrote everything in Old English, the language of the everything in Old English, the language of the Anglo-Saxons used in the epic Beowulf about Anglo-Saxons used in the epic Beowulf about 1200 years ago, which is not even recognizable 1200 years ago, which is not even recognizable today)today)

Sanskrit means “perfect speech”; it is considered Sanskrit means “perfect speech”; it is considered a “sacred” language, spoken by the gods. As a “sacred” language, spoken by the gods. As such it was seen as the such it was seen as the onlyonly appropriate form of appropriate form of expression for the noblest literary works, such as expression for the noblest literary works, such as epics, court poems, and dramas.epics, court poems, and dramas.

The Four Main Vedic TextsThe Four Main Vedic Texts The class of "Vedic texts" is aggregated around The class of "Vedic texts" is aggregated around

the four canonical Saṃhitās or Vedas proper the four canonical Saṃhitās or Vedas proper (turīya), of which three (traya) are related to the (turīya), of which three (traya) are related to the performance of yajna (sacrifice) in historical (Iron performance of yajna (sacrifice) in historical (Iron Age) Vedic religion: (classified as Orthodox)Age) Vedic religion: (classified as Orthodox)– the the RigvedaRigveda, containing hymns to be recited by the hotṛ , containing hymns to be recited by the hotṛ

or chief priest;or chief priest;– the the YajurvedaYajurveda, containing formulas to be recited by the , containing formulas to be recited by the

adhvaryu or officiating priest;adhvaryu or officiating priest;– the the SamavedaSamaveda, containing formulas to be chanted by , containing formulas to be chanted by

the udgātṛ.the udgātṛ.– The fourth is the The fourth is the AtharvavedaAtharvaveda, a collection of spells , a collection of spells

and incantations, stories, predictions, apotropaic charms and incantations, stories, predictions, apotropaic charms and some speculative hymnsand some speculative hymns

BuddhismBuddhism and and JainismJainism, , SikhismSikhism and and BrahmoismBrahmoism do not accept the authority of the do not accept the authority of the Vedas and are considered Vedas and are considered Non-orthodoxNon-orthodox

Vedic Period (cont)Vedic Period (cont) Rise of major kingdoms known as the Rise of major kingdoms known as the

MahajanapadasMahajanapadas. In one of these kingdoms . In one of these kingdoms MagadhaMagadha, , MahaviraMahavira and and Gautama BuddhaGautama Buddha were were born in the 6th century BCE, who propagated born in the 6th century BCE, who propagated their Shramanic philosophies among the masses.their Shramanic philosophies among the masses.

After the After the RigvedaRigveda, Aryan society became , Aryan society became increasingly agricultural, and was socially increasingly agricultural, and was socially organized around the four Varnas (class system). organized around the four Varnas (class system). In addition to the principal texts of the In addition to the principal texts of the VedasVedas, the , the core themes of the Sanskrit epics core themes of the Sanskrit epics RamayanaRamayana and and MahabharataMahabharata are said to have their ultimate are said to have their ultimate origins during this period. origins during this period.

Early Indo-Aryan presence probably corresponds, Early Indo-Aryan presence probably corresponds, in part, to the presence of in part, to the presence of Ochre Coloured PotteryOchre Coloured Pottery in archaeological findings.in archaeological findings.

Vedic IndiaVedic India

City-State RepublicsCity-State Republics In the later Vedic Age, a number of small In the later Vedic Age, a number of small

kingdoms or city states had covered the kingdoms or city states had covered the subcontinent, many mentioned during Vedic, subcontinent, many mentioned during Vedic, early Buddhist and Jaina literature as far back as early Buddhist and Jaina literature as far back as 1000 BCE. By 500 BCE, sixteen monarchies and 1000 BCE. By 500 BCE, sixteen monarchies and 'republics' known as the Mahajanapadas — Kasi, 'republics' known as the Mahajanapadas — Kasi, Kosala, Anga, Magadha, Vajji (or Vriji), Malla, Kosala, Anga, Magadha, Vajji (or Vriji), Malla, Chedi, Vatsa (or Vamsa), Kuru, Panchala, Chedi, Vatsa (or Vamsa), Kuru, Panchala, Machcha (or Matsya), Surasena, Assaka, Avanti, Machcha (or Matsya), Surasena, Assaka, Avanti, Gandhara, Kamboja — stretched across the Indo-Gandhara, Kamboja — stretched across the Indo-Gangetic plains from modern-day Afghanistan to Gangetic plains from modern-day Afghanistan to Bengal and Maharastra. This period was that of Bengal and Maharastra. This period was that of the second major urbanisation in India after the the second major urbanisation in India after the Indus Valley Civilization.Indus Valley Civilization.

The Mahajanapadas (Kingdoms)The Mahajanapadas (Kingdoms)

The Rise of Buddhism and JainismThe Rise of Buddhism and Jainism It is believed that in 537 BCE, that Siddhartha Gautama It is believed that in 537 BCE, that Siddhartha Gautama

attained the state of "enlightenment", and became known attained the state of "enlightenment", and became known as the 'as the 'BuddhaBuddha' - the Enlightened One. ' - the Enlightened One.

Around the same time, Mahavira (the 24th Jain Tirthankara Around the same time, Mahavira (the 24th Jain Tirthankara according to Jains) propagated a similar theology, that was according to Jains) propagated a similar theology, that was to later become to later become JainismJainism. However, Jain orthodoxy believes . However, Jain orthodoxy believes it predates all known time. The Vedas are believed to have it predates all known time. The Vedas are believed to have documented a few Jain Tirthankars, and an ascetic order documented a few Jain Tirthankars, and an ascetic order similar to the sramana movement.similar to the sramana movement.

The The BuddhaBuddha's teachings and 's teachings and JainismJainism had doctrines had doctrines inclined toward inclined toward asceticismasceticism, and were preached in Prakrit, , and were preached in Prakrit, which helped them gain acceptance amongst the masses. which helped them gain acceptance amongst the masses.

They have profoundly influenced practices that They have profoundly influenced practices that HinduismHinduism and Indian spiritual orders are associated with namely, and Indian spiritual orders are associated with namely, vegetarianism, prohibition of animal slaughter and vegetarianism, prohibition of animal slaughter and ahimsa (non-violence).ahimsa (non-violence). While the geographic impact of While the geographic impact of Jainism was limited to India, Buddhist nuns and monks Jainism was limited to India, Buddhist nuns and monks eventually spread the teachings of Buddha to Central Asia, eventually spread the teachings of Buddha to Central Asia, East Asia, Tibet, Sri Lanka and South East Asia.East Asia, Tibet, Sri Lanka and South East Asia.

Persian and Greek RulePersian and Greek Rule Much of the northwestern Indian Subcontinent Much of the northwestern Indian Subcontinent

(present day Eastern Afghanistan and Pakistan) (present day Eastern Afghanistan and Pakistan) came under the rule of the came under the rule of the Persian Achaemenid Persian Achaemenid EmpireEmpire in c. in c. 520 BCE520 BCE during the reign of during the reign of Darius Darius the Greatthe Great, (who came after Cyrus the Great), and , (who came after Cyrus the Great), and who was succeeded by Xerxes.who was succeeded by Xerxes.

In In 326 BCE326 BCE, Alexander the Great conquered Asia , Alexander the Great conquered Asia Minor and the Achaemenid Empire, reaching the Minor and the Achaemenid Empire, reaching the north-west frontiers of the Indian subcontinent. north-west frontiers of the Indian subcontinent. His army, exhausted and frightened by the His army, exhausted and frightened by the prospect of facing larger Indian armies at the prospect of facing larger Indian armies at the Ganges River, mutinied and refused to march Ganges River, mutinied and refused to march further East. further East.

State of Affairs in Asia c.323 BCEState of Affairs in Asia c.323 BCE

Influences of Persians and GreeksInfluences of Persians and Greeks

The Persian and Greek invasions had important The Persian and Greek invasions had important repercussions on Indian civilization. The political repercussions on Indian civilization. The political systems of the Persians was to influence future systems of the Persians was to influence future forms of governance on the subcontinent, forms of governance on the subcontinent, including the administration of the Mauryan including the administration of the Mauryan dynasty during the Maurya Empire (322–185 B.C)dynasty during the Maurya Empire (322–185 B.C)

In addition, the region of Gandhara, or present-In addition, the region of Gandhara, or present-day eastern Afghanistan and north-west Pakistan, day eastern Afghanistan and north-west Pakistan, became a melting pot of Indian, Persian, Central became a melting pot of Indian, Persian, Central Asian and Greek cultures and gave rise to a Asian and Greek cultures and gave rise to a hybrid culture, hybrid culture, Greco-BuddhismGreco-Buddhism, which lasted , which lasted until the 5th century CE and influenced the until the 5th century CE and influenced the artistic development of artistic development of Mahayana BuddhismMahayana Buddhism..

Hinduism: Unity in DiversityHinduism: Unity in Diversity It is impossible to understand Indian literary It is impossible to understand Indian literary

tradition—which claims more texts than the tradition—which claims more texts than the ancient Greek and Roman traditions ancient Greek and Roman traditions combined—without speaking of the religion combined—without speaking of the religion followed by the majority of India’s followed by the majority of India’s 1,000,000,000+ people: 1,000,000,000+ people: HinduismHinduism..

Hinduism evolved from the beliefs of the Hinduism evolved from the beliefs of the Aryans of the Vedic period. More than a Aryans of the Vedic period. More than a religion, Hinduism is a way of life, with a religion, Hinduism is a way of life, with a seemingly endless variety of beliefs, rituals seemingly endless variety of beliefs, rituals and gods. It has no written doctrines or set and gods. It has no written doctrines or set of rules and no single prophet or religious of rules and no single prophet or religious leader like Christ or Mohammad. Its leader like Christ or Mohammad. Its pantheon consists of innumerable deities by pantheon consists of innumerable deities by some counts. some counts.

Trimurti: “Three Forms”Trimurti: “Three Forms”

Three deities stand out in Hinduism, Three deities stand out in Hinduism, called the “Trimurti” (Three Forms):called the “Trimurti” (Three Forms):– BrahmaBrahma the Creator the Creator– VishnuVishnu the Protector the Protector– ShivaShiva the Destroyer/Preserver. the Destroyer/Preserver.– ShaktiShakti, mother goddess, consort to , mother goddess, consort to

Shiva, is also a central deity today. She Shiva, is also a central deity today. She also takes several forms, including also takes several forms, including KaliKali, , who presides over creation and who presides over creation and destruction. destruction.

All OneAll One

Why “Three Forms”? Because Hindus Why “Three Forms”? Because Hindus believe that all gods—indeed, everything believe that all gods—indeed, everything in the universe—are aspects of a in the universe—are aspects of a single single essenceessence, or immortal spirit., or immortal spirit.

This belief in the This belief in the ultimate onenessultimate oneness of of existence serves as a counterweight to the existence serves as a counterweight to the diversity of India’s enormous population diversity of India’s enormous population and its many different classes of people and its many different classes of people and methods of worship.and methods of worship.

The Epics: the The Epics: the MahabharataMahabharata and and the the RamayanaRamayana

These two epics vividly illustrate the teachings of These two epics vividly illustrate the teachings of Hinduism, particularly the concepts of dharma, Hinduism, particularly the concepts of dharma, kharma, and reincarnation.kharma, and reincarnation.

DharmaDharma: Sanskrit “to hold”. English word closest : Sanskrit “to hold”. English word closest in meaning to it is “religion”. Encompasses in meaning to it is “religion”. Encompasses concepts such as duty, righteousness, ethics, concepts such as duty, righteousness, ethics, morality, law, and order.morality, law, and order.

Everyone is born with a unique dharma, which Everyone is born with a unique dharma, which unfolds based on choices made throughout a unfolds based on choices made throughout a person’s lifetime. This is not to say that all person’s lifetime. This is not to say that all choices are necessarily “good” ones, morally or choices are necessarily “good” ones, morally or ethically in order to be in accordance with one’s ethically in order to be in accordance with one’s dharma.dharma.

Dharma requires that a person fulfill the duties of Dharma requires that a person fulfill the duties of his or her station in life, however lofty or humble his or her station in life, however lofty or humble they might be.they might be.

Caste System, Karma, Caste System, Karma, ReincarnationReincarnation

A person’s dharma is determined in part A person’s dharma is determined in part by his/her caste(4). Divided from the by his/her caste(4). Divided from the sacrifice of first man (Rigveda)sacrifice of first man (Rigveda)– BrahmansBrahmans (head): scholars, priests, teachers (head): scholars, priests, teachers– KshatriyasKshatriyas (torso): rulers and warriors (torso): rulers and warriors– VaisyasVaisyas (thighs): merchants, farmers, artisans (thighs): merchants, farmers, artisans– Sudras (feet): menial workersSudras (feet): menial workers– UntouchablesUntouchables (excluded): disposing dead (excluded): disposing dead

animals and cleaning up human wasteanimals and cleaning up human waste KharmaKharma: (Sanskrit) action: (Sanskrit) action ReincarnationReincarnation: transmigration of souls: transmigration of souls One’s Actions (Kharma) determines one’s One’s Actions (Kharma) determines one’s

rebirth into the caste system in the next rebirth into the caste system in the next life.life.

BuddhismBuddhism Founded by Siddhartha Gautama (563-483 BCE); Founded by Siddhartha Gautama (563-483 BCE);

prince who gave up wealth and privilege to prince who gave up wealth and privilege to search for spiritual peace.search for spiritual peace.

Buddha=“Enlightened One”Buddha=“Enlightened One” Believed that the endless cycle of Believed that the endless cycle of sufferingsuffering was was

caused by desire for earthly goodscaused by desire for earthly goods.. The way to master this desire was to practice The way to master this desire was to practice

yoga (Sanskrit: “union”), a spiritual practice that yoga (Sanskrit: “union”), a spiritual practice that combines asceticism with meditation, breathing combines asceticism with meditation, breathing practices, specific postures, and ethical, non-practices, specific postures, and ethical, non-violent behavior.violent behavior.

Buddhism rejects social caste system of Buddhism rejects social caste system of Hinduism.Hinduism.

Fades from India by 12Fades from India by 12thth Century CE. Century CE.

Islam, Mongols in IndiaIslam, Mongols in India Islamic InvasionsIslamic Invasions: After conquering Persia, Islamic Caliphate : After conquering Persia, Islamic Caliphate

incorporated what is now Pakistan around 720 AD. They incorporated what is now Pakistan around 720 AD. They were keen to invade India which was the richest classical were keen to invade India which was the richest classical civilization, with a flourishing international trade and the civilization, with a flourishing international trade and the only known diamond mines in the world. Invasions only known diamond mines in the world. Invasions continued over the next several centuries, resulting "Indo-continued over the next several centuries, resulting "Indo-Muslim" fusion of cultures that left lasting monuments in Muslim" fusion of cultures that left lasting monuments in architecture, music, literature, religion, and clothing. architecture, music, literature, religion, and clothing.

Mongol InvasionsMongol Invasions: A Turco-Mongol conqueror Timur : A Turco-Mongol conqueror Timur (Tamerlane, Timur the Lame) began a trek starting in 1398 (Tamerlane, Timur the Lame) began a trek starting in 1398 to invade the reigning Sultan Nasir-u Din Mehmud of the to invade the reigning Sultan Nasir-u Din Mehmud of the Tughlaq Dynasty in the north Indian city of Delhi. The Tughlaq Dynasty in the north Indian city of Delhi. The Sultan's army was defeated on December 17, 1398. Timur Sultan's army was defeated on December 17, 1398. Timur entered Delhi and the city was sacked, destroyed and left in entered Delhi and the city was sacked, destroyed and left in ruins; his army fell killing and plundering for three days and ruins; his army fell killing and plundering for three days and nights. He ordered except for the Sayyids, the scholars, and nights. He ordered except for the Sayyids, the scholars, and the other Mussulmans, the whole city to be sacked; the other Mussulmans, the whole city to be sacked; 100,000 war prisoners, mostly Hindus, were put to death in 100,000 war prisoners, mostly Hindus, were put to death in one day.one day.

Mughal (Mogul) EmpireMughal (Mogul) Empire In 1526, Babur, a Timurid descendant of Timur and Genghis In 1526, Babur, a Timurid descendant of Timur and Genghis

Khan, swept across the Khyber Pass and established the Khan, swept across the Khyber Pass and established the Mughal Empire, which lasted for over 200 years and Mughal Empire, which lasted for over 200 years and occupied an area similar to the ancient Maurya Empire. The occupied an area similar to the ancient Maurya Empire. The Mughal Dynasty ruled most of the Indian subcontinent by Mughal Dynasty ruled most of the Indian subcontinent by 1600; it went into a slow decline after 1707 and was finally 1600; it went into a slow decline after 1707 and was finally defeated during the 1857 War of Independence also called defeated during the 1857 War of Independence also called the Indian Rebellion of 1857. the Indian Rebellion of 1857.

This period marked vast social change in the subcontinent This period marked vast social change in the subcontinent as the Hindu majority were ruled over by the Mughal as the Hindu majority were ruled over by the Mughal emperors; most of them showed religious tolerance, emperors; most of them showed religious tolerance, liberally patronizing Hindu culture. liberally patronizing Hindu culture.

However, later emperors tried to establish complete Muslim However, later emperors tried to establish complete Muslim dominance and as a result several historical temples were dominance and as a result several historical temples were destroyed during this period and taxes imposed on non-destroyed during this period and taxes imposed on non-Muslims. Muslims.

The Taj Mahal (b. 1653) is a mausoleum located in Agra, The Taj Mahal (b. 1653) is a mausoleum located in Agra, India, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of India, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of

his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal.his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal.

Outcome?Outcome?

Just as the Muslims were not Just as the Muslims were not absorbed into Hinduism, neither was absorbed into Hinduism, neither was India overwhelmed by Islamic culture India overwhelmed by Islamic culture and religion.and religion.

Eventually, in 1947, as tensions built Eventually, in 1947, as tensions built between the two groups, India was between the two groups, India was partitioned into two states: Pakistan partitioned into two states: Pakistan for Muslims, and India for Hindus.for Muslims, and India for Hindus.

ChinaChina

Has existed longer than any modern Has existed longer than any modern civilization today (4,000 years)civilization today (4,000 years)

Writing developed using an alphabet Writing developed using an alphabet of more than 3000 characters (ours of more than 3000 characters (ours has 26), in 2has 26), in 2ndnd millenium (2000-1000) millenium (2000-1000) BCE.BCE.

Dynastic RuleDynastic Rule

China’s history is characterized by China’s history is characterized by periods of stability enforced by periods of stability enforced by strong central authority, followed by strong central authority, followed by struggles between warring local struggles between warring local princes and rival families try to princes and rival families try to overthrow the ruling family, or overthrow the ruling family, or dynasty.dynasty.

The Dynasties: ShangThe Dynasties: Shang

ShangShang: 1766 BCE-1122 BCE, 1: 1766 BCE-1122 BCE, 1stst period of family rule. period of family rule. – Unique system of Chinese writing began Unique system of Chinese writing began

to developto develop– The Chinese alphabet consists of The Chinese alphabet consists of

thousands of characters each thousands of characters each representing complete words or units of representing complete words or units of meaning.meaning.

The Dynasties: Chou (Zhou)The Dynasties: Chou (Zhou)

ChouChou: the longest lasting dynasty, : the longest lasting dynasty, overthrew the Shang, and held power from overthrew the Shang, and held power from 1122 BCE-256 BCE.1122 BCE-256 BCE.– Established a structure of imperial rule that Established a structure of imperial rule that

became the model of government for China became the model of government for China until the early 20until the early 20thth century CE. century CE.

– The Emperor, usually oldest son of ruling The Emperor, usually oldest son of ruling family, controlled vast territory by creating a family, controlled vast territory by creating a network of local government officials whose network of local government officials whose advancement depended on their loyalty to the advancement depended on their loyalty to the imperial familyimperial family

The Dynasties: Ch’in (Qin)The Dynasties: Ch’in (Qin) In 221 BCE, the Ch’in dynasty In 221 BCE, the Ch’in dynasty

overpowered the Chou (hence name overpowered the Chou (hence name “China”). Ruled until 206 BCE.“China”). Ruled until 206 BCE.– Ch’in rulers connected and fortified their Ch’in rulers connected and fortified their

empire by building roads and constructing a empire by building roads and constructing a 1500 mile defensive wall, known as the Great 1500 mile defensive wall, known as the Great Wall of China, across northern border.Wall of China, across northern border.

– Philosophy of Philosophy of LegalismLegalism, emphasizing strict , emphasizing strict adherence to a legal code and the absolute adherence to a legal code and the absolute power of the emperor, while effective for power of the emperor, while effective for expanding the empire in a military fashion, expanding the empire in a military fashion, proved unworkable for governing it in peace proved unworkable for governing it in peace time. The Ch’in presided over the brutal time. The Ch’in presided over the brutal silencing of political opposition, including the silencing of political opposition, including the event known as the burning and burying of event known as the burning and burying of scholarsscholars

Qin Shi Huang – Ch’in EmperorQin Shi Huang – Ch’in Emperor

Great Wall of ChinaGreat Wall of China

And now for something completely And now for something completely unexpected…unexpected…

http://www.fquick.com/videos/South_http://www.fquick.com/videos/South_Park_City_Wall/2404Park_City_Wall/2404

Qin Shi Huang’s Terra Cotta ArmyQin Shi Huang’s Terra Cotta Army

The Dynasties: HanThe Dynasties: Han Han (202 BCE – 220 CE): It was the first dynasty Han (202 BCE – 220 CE): It was the first dynasty

to embrace the philosophy of Confucianism, to embrace the philosophy of Confucianism, which became the ideological underpinning of all which became the ideological underpinning of all regimes until the end of imperial China.regimes until the end of imperial China.

Extended the Chinese empire by pushing back Extended the Chinese empire by pushing back the Xiongnu (sometimes identified with the Huns) the Xiongnu (sometimes identified with the Huns) into the steppes of modern Inner Mongolia, into the steppes of modern Inner Mongolia, wresting from them the modern areas of Gansu, wresting from them the modern areas of Gansu, Ningxia and Qinghai. This enabled the first Ningxia and Qinghai. This enabled the first opening of trading connections between China opening of trading connections between China and the West, the and the West, the Silk RoadSilk Road..

The first of several Roman embassies to China is The first of several Roman embassies to China is recorded in Chinese sources, coming from the sea recorded in Chinese sources, coming from the sea route in 166, and a second one in 284.route in 166, and a second one in 284.

Literature, the arts, technology and trade Literature, the arts, technology and trade flourishedflourished

Succumbed to corruption and infighting.Succumbed to corruption and infighting.

The Dynasties: TangThe Dynasties: Tang On June 18, 618 CE, Gaozu took the throne, and the Tang On June 18, 618 CE, Gaozu took the throne, and the Tang

Dynasty was established, opening a new age of prosperity Dynasty was established, opening a new age of prosperity and innovations in arts and technology. Buddhism, which and innovations in arts and technology. Buddhism, which had gradually been established in China from the first had gradually been established in China from the first century, became the predominant religion and was adopted century, became the predominant religion and was adopted by the imperial family and many of the common people.by the imperial family and many of the common people.

Chang'an (modern Xi'an), the national capital, is thought to Chang'an (modern Xi'an), the national capital, is thought to have been the world's largest city at the time. The Tang have been the world's largest city at the time. The Tang and the Han are often referred to as the most prosperous and the Han are often referred to as the most prosperous periods of Chinese history.periods of Chinese history.

The Tang, like the Han, kept the trade routes open to the The Tang, like the Han, kept the trade routes open to the west and south and there was extensive trade with distant west and south and there was extensive trade with distant foreign countries and many foreign merchants settled in foreign countries and many foreign merchants settled in China.China.

The Tang introduced a new system into the Chinese The Tang introduced a new system into the Chinese government, called the "Equal Field System". This system government, called the "Equal Field System". This system gave families land grants from the Emperor based on their gave families land grants from the Emperor based on their needs, not their wealth.needs, not their wealth.

Succumbed to corruption and political infighting by 880.Succumbed to corruption and political infighting by 880.

The Dynasties: Sung (Song)The Dynasties: Sung (Song) In 960, the Song Dynasty (960-1279) gained In 960, the Song Dynasty (960-1279) gained

power over most of China, starting a period of power over most of China, starting a period of economic prosperity.economic prosperity.

Considered by many to be classical China's high Considered by many to be classical China's high point in science and technology, with innovative point in science and technology, with innovative scholar-officials such as Su Song (1020-1101) and scholar-officials such as Su Song (1020-1101) and Shen Kuo (1031-1095). There was court intrigue Shen Kuo (1031-1095). There was court intrigue with the political rivals of the Reformers and with the political rivals of the Reformers and Conservatives, led by the chancellors Wang Anshi Conservatives, led by the chancellors Wang Anshi and Sima Guang, respectively. and Sima Guang, respectively.

By the mid to late 13th century the Chinese had By the mid to late 13th century the Chinese had adopted the dogma of Neo-Confucian philosophy adopted the dogma of Neo-Confucian philosophy formulated by Zhu Xi. There were enormous formulated by Zhu Xi. There were enormous literary works compiled during the Song Dynasty, literary works compiled during the Song Dynasty, such as the historical work of the Zizhi Tongjian. such as the historical work of the Zizhi Tongjian. Culture and the arts flourished, with grandiose Culture and the arts flourished, with grandiose artworks such as Along the River During artworks such as Along the River During Qingming Festival and Eighteen Songs of a Qingming Festival and Eighteen Songs of a Nomad Flute, while there were great Buddhist Nomad Flute, while there were great Buddhist painters such as Lin Tinggui.painters such as Lin Tinggui.

Here come the Mongols…Here come the Mongols…

The Mongols, a warlike, semi-nomadic The Mongols, a warlike, semi-nomadic people from northwestern Asia, conquered people from northwestern Asia, conquered Imperial China in the late 12Imperial China in the late 12thth Century CE. Century CE.

They were overthrown and Chinese rule They were overthrown and Chinese rule resumed with the Ming Dynasty in 1368.resumed with the Ming Dynasty in 1368.

The Ming and later dynasties practiced The Ming and later dynasties practiced “isolationism” to limit contact with foreign “isolationism” to limit contact with foreign influences.influences.

But they can’t keep them out…But they can’t keep them out… Centuries of foreign rule and influence force Centuries of foreign rule and influence force

imperial authority over Chinese from various imperial authority over Chinese from various nations.nations.

2020thth century China witnessed civil war and century China witnessed civil war and installation of Communist regime mimicking installation of Communist regime mimicking Chinese history of a strong central authority Chinese history of a strong central authority establishing a period of stability and imperial establishing a period of stability and imperial strength. strength.

Chinese Communism does not equal Russian Chinese Communism does not equal Russian Communism, as China engages in a relatively Communism, as China engages in a relatively free-market economy, and regulates political and free-market economy, and regulates political and media outlets, as well as foreign influences media outlets, as well as foreign influences instead.instead.

Chinese Religion and PhilosophyChinese Religion and Philosophy Chinese literature and philosophy has Chinese literature and philosophy has

been influenced by the three main schools been influenced by the three main schools of thought: Confucianism, Taoism, and of thought: Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism.Buddhism.

ConfuciusConfucius (K’ung Fu-tzu) (551 BCE-479 (K’ung Fu-tzu) (551 BCE-479 BCE): 1BCE): 1stst great Chinese teacher, since great Chinese teacher, since then, profession of teaching is held in then, profession of teaching is held in great respect.great respect.

Teachings are practical and conservative; Teachings are practical and conservative; they emphasize ethical values such as they emphasize ethical values such as honesty, loyalty, respect for elders, love of honesty, loyalty, respect for elders, love of learning, and moral restraint. learning, and moral restraint.

““Learning without thought is labor lost; Learning without thought is labor lost; thought without learning is perilous.” – The thought without learning is perilous.” – The Confucian Analects. Confucian Analects.

Teaching to the Test – Ancient Teaching to the Test – Ancient Chinese EducationChinese Education

To become civil servants, boys had to take To become civil servants, boys had to take a series of tests based on classic texts.a series of tests based on classic texts.

Training began at 3 years old. Training began at 3 years old. By 8 years old, they had learned a By 8 years old, they had learned a

thousand basic Chinese written thousand basic Chinese written characters.characters.

By 15 years old, they had memorized texts By 15 years old, they had memorized texts amounting to 431,286 characters.amounting to 431,286 characters.

This = 200 characters / day for six years.This = 200 characters / day for six years. Based entirely on texts of Confucius and Based entirely on texts of Confucius and

books of poetry, documents and rites. books of poetry, documents and rites. Continued until 1904.Continued until 1904.

Lao-TzuLao-Tzu Born around 570 BCE.Born around 570 BCE. Wrote the Wrote the Tao Te ChingTao Te Ching.. Was a mystic who believed that less Was a mystic who believed that less

government was better.government was better. Regarded Nature as a great teacher.Regarded Nature as a great teacher. Urged people to seek wisdom by Urged people to seek wisdom by

turning their backs on their world turning their backs on their world and contemplating “Tao” – and contemplating “Tao” – mysterious force that governs and mysterious force that governs and unifies all of nature.unifies all of nature.

Yin and YangYin and Yang

Balance of OppositesBalance of Opposites Over their long history, Chinese have Over their long history, Chinese have

endured and risen up from chaos and endured and risen up from chaos and disaster again and again. disaster again and again.

This might be attributed to their This might be attributed to their perception of life as a process of continual perception of life as a process of continual change, in which opposing forces such as change, in which opposing forces such as heaven and earthheaven and earth, or , or light and darklight and dark, , balance one another.balance one another.

Symbolized in Symbolized in Yin-yangYin-yang symbol. symbol. – Yin: passive, feminine forceYin: passive, feminine force– Yang: active, masculine forceYang: active, masculine forceEach contains a “seed” of the other. Offers hope Each contains a “seed” of the other. Offers hope

in tough times since it teaches that Evil in tough times since it teaches that Evil contains the seed of “Good”.contains the seed of “Good”.

JapanJapan

Japan’s early social structure was Japan’s early social structure was based on based on clan (family) divisionsclan (family) divisions. Each . Each clan consisted of a well-defined clan consisted of a well-defined hierarchy of classes:hierarchy of classes:– Aristocrats, warriors, priests (top)Aristocrats, warriors, priests (top)– Peasants and workers (bottom)Peasants and workers (bottom)

In 4In 4thth Century CE, Yamato family was Century CE, Yamato family was powerful enough to subdue others.powerful enough to subdue others.

Yamato InfluenceYamato Influence

Admired Chinese culture, political Admired Chinese culture, political organization and philosophy, and organization and philosophy, and imported these into Japan:imported these into Japan:

Prince Shotoku: (593-622 CE) Prince Shotoku: (593-622 CE) Created emperor, imperial Created emperor, imperial bureaucracy, and grand capitol city.bureaucracy, and grand capitol city.

However, in Japan, the emperor was However, in Japan, the emperor was largely just a figurehead.largely just a figurehead.

Feudal era:Feudal era: In the 8In the 8thth century, aristocrats amassed century, aristocrats amassed

huge private estates outside imperial huge private estates outside imperial authority.authority.

These lords surrounded themselves with These lords surrounded themselves with professional warriors, called samurai. professional warriors, called samurai.

Samurai lived by a strict code of conduct: Samurai lived by a strict code of conduct: based on absolute loyalty to one’s based on absolute loyalty to one’s overlord and personal honor.overlord and personal honor.

Similar to Europe’s concept of “Chivalry”Similar to Europe’s concept of “Chivalry” In 12In 12thth century Yoritomo named “Shogun”; century Yoritomo named “Shogun”;

ruling general. Over next 500 years others ruling general. Over next 500 years others ruled but feuding continued.ruled but feuding continued.

Downfall of FeudalismDownfall of Feudalism In late 1500’s, a powerful shogun crushed In late 1500’s, a powerful shogun crushed

the warring feudal lords, and the the warring feudal lords, and the Tokugawa shogunate, or “shogun-ruled Tokugawa shogunate, or “shogun-ruled regime” began to rule all of Japan from a regime” began to rule all of Japan from a new capitol in Edo, later called Tokyo.new capitol in Edo, later called Tokyo.

Foreigners show interest in Japan, but the Foreigners show interest in Japan, but the shogunate fear revolts from home or shogunate fear revolts from home or abroad.abroad.

By 1630, Japan becomes closed society; all By 1630, Japan becomes closed society; all foreigners are expelled. foreigners are expelled.

Christians are persecuted, and Japanese Christians are persecuted, and Japanese are forbidden to leave country, under are forbidden to leave country, under penalty of death.penalty of death.

Policy of Isolationism EndsPolicy of Isolationism Ends Maintain policy of isolationism for two Maintain policy of isolationism for two

centuries.centuries. 1853, Commodore Matthew Perry steams 1853, Commodore Matthew Perry steams

into Tokyo Bay and demands that Japan into Tokyo Bay and demands that Japan trade with U.S. Negotiations signed, trade trade with U.S. Negotiations signed, trade begins.begins.

Shogunate ends in 1868, and Japan, under Shogunate ends in 1868, and Japan, under a new, more powerful emperor, rapidly a new, more powerful emperor, rapidly acquires:acquires:– Latest technological knowledgeLatest technological knowledge– Introduces cultural educationIntroduces cultural education– Creates impressive industrial economyCreates impressive industrial economy

ShintoismShintoism Followers of Shintoism revere divine Followers of Shintoism revere divine

spirits called “kami”, which reside in spirits called “kami”, which reside in natural places and objects. natural places and objects.

Ancestors and Emperor were also Ancestors and Emperor were also regarded as “divine”.regarded as “divine”.

The native Shinto tradition easily The native Shinto tradition easily accomodated various strains of accomodated various strains of Buddhism adopted by Japanese from Buddhism adopted by Japanese from the Chinese and Koreans beginning the Chinese and Koreans beginning in 5in 5thth-6-6thth centuries CE. centuries CE.

Zen Buddhism in JapanZen Buddhism in Japan Although Buddhism originated in India, it was Although Buddhism originated in India, it was

developed by Chinese monks and scholars and developed by Chinese monks and scholars and evolved into a number of schools quite distinct evolved into a number of schools quite distinct from Indian counterparts. (Connection?)from Indian counterparts. (Connection?)

All schoolsAll schools sought spiritual freedom and inner sought spiritual freedom and inner tranquility, but each pursued different paths to tranquility, but each pursued different paths to these goals.these goals.

Zen Buddhism, imported from China around Zen Buddhism, imported from China around 1200, challenged intellectualism of older sects, 1200, challenged intellectualism of older sects, and advocated meditation, concentration, and and advocated meditation, concentration, and self-discipline as a way to enlightenment.self-discipline as a way to enlightenment.

Zen priests and institutions helped develop the Zen priests and institutions helped develop the tea ceremony, landscape gardening, and military tea ceremony, landscape gardening, and military arts such as Judo.arts such as Judo.

Japanese Literature: Pride in Japanese Literature: Pride in PoetryPoetry

Inspired by Chinese models (adopted Inspired by Chinese models (adopted writing), preceded by long oral tradition, writing), preceded by long oral tradition, writing begins in 5writing begins in 5thth century CE. century CE.

Poetry highly respected form of writing.Poetry highly respected form of writing. TankaTanka – emerges in 8 – emerges in 8thth century – century –

characterized by brief bursts of feeling and characterized by brief bursts of feeling and highly condensed language.highly condensed language.

HaikuHaiku – emerges in 17 – emerges in 17thth century – also century – also highly condense language; 17 syllables, highly condense language; 17 syllables, three lines: 5-7-5three lines: 5-7-5

Greatest Flowering of Prose during Greatest Flowering of Prose during Heian Period (794-1185 CE)Heian Period (794-1185 CE)

Leisurely life at court made it possible for Leisurely life at court made it possible for two well-educated two well-educated womenwomen to chronicle the to chronicle the atmosphere in which they lived.atmosphere in which they lived.

The Tale of GenjiThe Tale of Genji – considered by scholars – considered by scholars to be world’s first true novel, by Lady to be world’s first true novel, by Lady Murasaki Shikibu, traces amorous life of Murasaki Shikibu, traces amorous life of gifted and charming prince.gifted and charming prince.

The Pillow BookThe Pillow Book – witty and revealing – witty and revealing journal about court life by Lady Sei journal about court life by Lady Sei Shonagon.Shonagon.

Japanese DramaJapanese Drama

The most distinctive form of Japanese The most distinctive form of Japanese drama is called “drama is called “NohNoh” which means ” which means “talent” or “skill”.“talent” or “skill”.– Purpose of Noh dramas is to invoke a moment Purpose of Noh dramas is to invoke a moment

of wisdom in the tradition of Zen Buddhism.of wisdom in the tradition of Zen Buddhism. KubukiKubuki is a more theatrical kind of play is a more theatrical kind of play

involving dancing and singing, which was involving dancing and singing, which was popular with a more general audience. popular with a more general audience. Kubuki drama uses stock characters and Kubuki drama uses stock characters and stylized situations.stylized situations.