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