History of Chinese Civilization. Volume 4

Author: Yuan Xingpei et al
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2006-04-01
Features: This book is an academic work co-authored by the Institute of Sinology at Peking University, representing an interdisciplinary approach. It upholds the view that the creation of civilization is both the history of human creation and the history of human evolution. It correspondingly aligns material civilization, political civilization, and spiritual civilization with the relationship between humans and nature, the organization of human society, and the inner world of humans, demonstrating their intricate connections and providing a comprehensive description to highlight the creativity of the Chinese nation and the enduring process of Chinese civilization. The book divides Chinese civilization into four periods, basing the divisions on major transformations in the history of Chinese civilization. It meticulously portrays the characteristics, highlights, and transitional relationships of each period, showcasing the key factors that played a crucial role in the development of civilization. By exploring these factors, the book comprehensively discusses the evolution of Chinese civilization, revealing certain developmental patterns and historical experiences. The book attempts to examine Chinese civilization within the context of the global landscape, outlining its position in the process of world civilization. In its arguments, it fully integrates archaeological and material evidence with textual records, striving to combine historical narrative, scholarly analysis, and literary flair. This volume covers the mid-Ming Dynasty to the Xinhai Revolution.