Faith, Myth, and Reason in Han China

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.

SKU
26874g

Michael Loewe

2005 - 240 pp.

Grouped product items
Format ISBN Price Qty
Cloth (no dust jacket) 978-0-87220-757-8
$45.00
Paper 978-0-87220-756-1
$16.00

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.

Reviews:

“. . . this is a slight book but one that belies its unpretentious appearance. It is in fact the best introduction available to the cultural background of Han China.”
     —Paul W. Kroll, Chinese Literature: Essays, Articles, Reviews

About the Author: 

Michael Loewe was University Lecturer in Chinese Studies, University of Cambridge, from 1963 to 1990. He is an Emeritus Fellow of Clare Hall.