Faith, Myth, and Reason in Han China

Description

In his classic study of the cultural history of Han China, Michael Loewe uses both archaeological discoveries and written records to sketch the conceptual background of various artifacts of the Han period, and shows how ancient Chinese thought is as much informed by mythology as it is dependent on reason. Originally published as Chinese Ideas of Life and Death: Faith, Myth and Reason in the Han Period (202 BC-AD 220), this edition includes a new Preface that discusses relevant discoveries made since the first publication and an updated list of other works on relevant topics. Faith, Myth and Reason in Han China Copyright Contents Preface Preface to the Hackett Edition Introduction 1 Four Attitudes of Mind 2 The Gods 3 The Life Hereafter 4 The Order of Nature 5 The Universe and the Shape of the Heavens 6 The Earth and its Creatures 7 The Cycle of Change 8 Omens and Miracles 9 Divination and Oracles 10 Shamans and Intermediaries 11 Services to the Dead 12 The Imperial Cults 13 Imperial Sovereignty 14 The Purposes of Government 15 The Regulation of Man 16 The Scriptures References and Notes for Further Reading Glossary Emperors of the Han Dynasty Addendum to Further Reading Index