History has always been a popular subject matter in academic exploration. Over the years, history has not yet failed to suffice the world with the most interesting discoveries about the past civilizations that existed way before the modern society which currently breathes on earth. History, through its connection to the various kinds of civilizations that walked the earth years past, connects to another dynamic and equally interesting subject matter, which is culture. These two interesting topics were tackled and touched by the great Asian history and literature author, Benjamin Isadore Schwartz. In his book, entitled The World of Thought in Ancient China, Schwartz brings the reader into the colorful and vibrant worlds of different Chinese civilizations that existed in different time frames in history.
This book traces the developments and changes that occurred throughout the decisive and crucial stages of the Chinese cultures history. Schwartz delves into the fascinating world of Chinese history and culture and hopes to present every interesting and enthralling detail to his readers. In this book, Schwartz presents the collected texts from different ancient Chinese urns of knowledge and literature. Schwartz developed his inclination towards Asian history during a time when the seeking for knowledge on history was at its peak. Together with other masters in Asian history, Schwartz realized the necessity to focus on the developments of Asias culture and tradition in order to realize how greatly it has evolved over the centuries. However, more specifically, Schwartz preferred to focus on one culture which has proven itself to be one of the worlds strongest and most preserved, the Chinese culture.
While Schwartz made his way into the brilliance and wondrousness of the Chinese culture, he was able to realize the complexity and dynamics of this society. And through intelligent explications and expositions about the said culture, Schwartz lets readers dive into the amazing culture of the Chinese civilizations as well through this work.
Schwartz starts off by explicating his main purpose in writing the book. He emphasized his objective to explore the themes and issues related to the history of ancient Chinese thought. From this, it can be observed that the author displays an intelligent leaning on the subject matter as he preferred to explore a complex and technical aspect of Chinese history instead of simplistic and typical concepts like art, literature or traditions. It was also notable for the author to relate the significance of studying the history of the history of Chinese thought to the studies on the same subject matter done in the context of other cultures such as that of the Korean, Japanese and other Western cultures. In this part of the book, Schwartz also articulately justified the significance of the subject matter where he decided to focus on. Schwartz reiterates that this subject matter is indeed significant to be explored as a lot of significant Chinese developments involve the history of Chinese thought. Schwartz specifically notes that,
The contention that the period which we are here considering is crucial to the understanding of the entire subsequent history of China in every area of life is hardly new. There has, in fact, been a sharp and even justified reaction against the excessive focus on this period by an older generation of sinologists. Few historians of China now believe that this is the only creative period of Chinese cultural history and that the centuries which lie between this period and the coming of the Western impact represent nothing but a silent, ahistorical, and in terms of our historic biases sterile stasis. (Schwartz, 1985, p.1)
At this point, Schwartz is able to make a good point by stating the significance of looking into the crucial time frame where most of the Chinese creative developments occurred. However, aside from this, he also emphasized that it is important to explore the history of Chinese thought as it can be observed that although most societies nowadays display modern trends of thought, there are still incontestable influences from the past societies present in their trends of thought. Aside from this, Schwartz also highlights the significance of historic changes. This is another highlight in this work, as most historical account nowadays fall short in reiterating the importance of this concept. By historical change, Schwartz means, the alterations on rules, customs, norms and ways of living. Schwartz notes that from these changes lay the breakthroughs in history, that appear to be some of the most interesting subject matters when it comes to tackling history.
As Schwartz goes on in his discussions on the more complex ideals, he makes a significant mention about the evolution of dynasties and empires. Just like other historical accounts on Chinese history, Schwartz also mentions the three powerful and significant empires in China, namely, Hsia, Shang and Chou. He notes the relation among these dynasties is important to explore as it will reveal how each dynastys developments affect the others. And when it comes to the development of thought, Schwartz notes that here, again, there may have been no one pristine state originating at one center but the simultaneous evolution of several more or less developed state formations over a wide area (Schwartz, 1985).
Schwartz also touched several popular ancient Chinese texts like the Book of Poetry, and the Book of documents. Each document was analyzed in terms of significance to the evolution of dynasties as well as to the overall evolution and development of Chinese thought. At this point, Schwartzs ability when it comes to explicating ancient texts appears clearly. It is apparent that he holds some level of mastery when it comes to analyzing and interpreting ancient Chinese texts as he was able to clearly and comprehensively expound on the said texts. It can also be observed that over the years, ancient texts and literature have always been considered some of the most interesting features in history. Thus, the association of these materials to this work gives it one interesting feature that must have served as a retainer of readers interest in the course of reading this book.
Aside from the interesting ancient Chinese texts, one of the most interesting features in this book is the authors leaning towards Confucian teaching. In the second chapter of this book, Schwartz displays a notable and remarkable mastery of Confucian beliefs and teachings as he tried to connect the Chou Dynastys history with the rest of the history of Chinese thought. The author specifically notes,
Despite the obscurity which still envelopes the history of China during the early centuries of the Chou dynasty, this period was to have peculiar symbolic importance. Here we find the period to which Chinas unique sage Confucius looked from the turmoils of his own era, seeking his image of the good society. What he saw and how that relates to what was actually there remains a question of ongoing interest. (Schwartz, 1985, p.40)
At this point, Schwartzs inclination and interest to historical personas also appear evident. His ability to eloquently relay is knowledge on the Confucian belief and way of life manifests his level of mastery when it comes to the more intricate details of Asian history. Also, the authors critical and analytical ability also appears clear in this part as he was able to intelligently connect this complex set of Confucian beliefs and teaching to the dynamic and seemingly developments of the Chinese thought.
Aside from the major Confucian teachings, Schwartz also displayed mastery in his explications of the Analects. In the third chapter of this book, Schwartz also discussed the significance of the Analects to the overall development of Chinese thought. However, in this part of the book, it can be observed that Schwartzs way of discussion grew more complex and technical. This might have been caused by the interrelating ideals and concepts within the context of the Analects.
However, although it was apparent that Schwartzs discussion grew more complex and technical towards the end, he was still able to display a remarkable ability in relating other ideals to his main subject matter. In the succeeding chapters of this book, the author also related the history of Chinese thought to those of other cultures like the Indian culture. In this part, it was apparent that Schwartz was trying to depict the richness of the Chinese historical developments in the context of the richness of other cultures history. This where readers will realize how open and knowledgeable the author is when it comes to the varying cultures in Asia. In every claim, there was always a logical supporting fact which does not just strengthen Schwartzs arguments, but also makes him a notably author due to his perceived credibility when it comes to his utilization of information.
As he delved deeper into the roots of Chinese history, Schwartz was also able to discuss some ideals about the roles of women I ancient china. The roles of women in history can also be considered as one of the most interesting and controversial topics typically discussed. Schwartz was able to mention some details about the role and treatment to women during the earlier years in China, however, this part was not a major feature in the book. As what Schwartz discusses, women and men were actually treated equally especially during the eight of the Confucian tradition. He states,
Since all men and women, whether they be fathers, mothers, teachers, or rulers, tend to be non-loving and self-interested, only Heaven in its transcendental impartiality, ets the pattern for men. (Schwartz, 1985, p.145)
In this part of his discussion, he reveals that one of the most remarkable features at this point of Chinese history is the equality of treatment between men and women. As what the aforementioned excerpt entails, the heavens at that point actually looks down to both man and woman as equally worldly and sinful beings thus, equal treatments were applied to them. However, as what have been mentioned earlier, this part of discussion about the roles of women did not constitute much of the main arguments. This part appeared like a minute detail of the larger discussion on the history of Chinese thought and culture. However, when it comes to all the other features in this book, it can nonetheless be said that Schwartz was able to succeed in justifying the significance of each minute detail and concept he mentioned.
All in all, this book appears like a vehicle for an adventurous and enthralling ride into the dynamic and interesting history of China. Although at some points, Schwartzs phrasing and command of language may seem too complex and incomprehensible due to the technicality of the details he discussed, the significance of such details were always easy to identify as Schwartz was able to state supporting facts and figures. His usage of language also appears commendable as every thought easily goes into a readers comprehension. His organization is also noteworthy as the flow of his thoughts and ideas emerged into a harmonious and flawless weave of concepts and historical accounts, which might have been possible through his smooth transitions. Understandably, an individual who is not that inclined enough to historical accounts may not easily grasp and appreciate this kind of work. However, as for those who are curious and inquisitive about the rich history of China, this work of Schwartz is a fine and remarkable read.
This book traces the developments and changes that occurred throughout the decisive and crucial stages of the Chinese cultures history. Schwartz delves into the fascinating world of Chinese history and culture and hopes to present every interesting and enthralling detail to his readers. In this book, Schwartz presents the collected texts from different ancient Chinese urns of knowledge and literature. Schwartz developed his inclination towards Asian history during a time when the seeking for knowledge on history was at its peak. Together with other masters in Asian history, Schwartz realized the necessity to focus on the developments of Asias culture and tradition in order to realize how greatly it has evolved over the centuries. However, more specifically, Schwartz preferred to focus on one culture which has proven itself to be one of the worlds strongest and most preserved, the Chinese culture.
While Schwartz made his way into the brilliance and wondrousness of the Chinese culture, he was able to realize the complexity and dynamics of this society. And through intelligent explications and expositions about the said culture, Schwartz lets readers dive into the amazing culture of the Chinese civilizations as well through this work.
Schwartz starts off by explicating his main purpose in writing the book. He emphasized his objective to explore the themes and issues related to the history of ancient Chinese thought. From this, it can be observed that the author displays an intelligent leaning on the subject matter as he preferred to explore a complex and technical aspect of Chinese history instead of simplistic and typical concepts like art, literature or traditions. It was also notable for the author to relate the significance of studying the history of the history of Chinese thought to the studies on the same subject matter done in the context of other cultures such as that of the Korean, Japanese and other Western cultures. In this part of the book, Schwartz also articulately justified the significance of the subject matter where he decided to focus on. Schwartz reiterates that this subject matter is indeed significant to be explored as a lot of significant Chinese developments involve the history of Chinese thought. Schwartz specifically notes that,
The contention that the period which we are here considering is crucial to the understanding of the entire subsequent history of China in every area of life is hardly new. There has, in fact, been a sharp and even justified reaction against the excessive focus on this period by an older generation of sinologists. Few historians of China now believe that this is the only creative period of Chinese cultural history and that the centuries which lie between this period and the coming of the Western impact represent nothing but a silent, ahistorical, and in terms of our historic biases sterile stasis. (Schwartz, 1985, p.1)
At this point, Schwartz is able to make a good point by stating the significance of looking into the crucial time frame where most of the Chinese creative developments occurred. However, aside from this, he also emphasized that it is important to explore the history of Chinese thought as it can be observed that although most societies nowadays display modern trends of thought, there are still incontestable influences from the past societies present in their trends of thought. Aside from this, Schwartz also highlights the significance of historic changes. This is another highlight in this work, as most historical account nowadays fall short in reiterating the importance of this concept. By historical change, Schwartz means, the alterations on rules, customs, norms and ways of living. Schwartz notes that from these changes lay the breakthroughs in history, that appear to be some of the most interesting subject matters when it comes to tackling history.
As Schwartz goes on in his discussions on the more complex ideals, he makes a significant mention about the evolution of dynasties and empires. Just like other historical accounts on Chinese history, Schwartz also mentions the three powerful and significant empires in China, namely, Hsia, Shang and Chou. He notes the relation among these dynasties is important to explore as it will reveal how each dynastys developments affect the others. And when it comes to the development of thought, Schwartz notes that here, again, there may have been no one pristine state originating at one center but the simultaneous evolution of several more or less developed state formations over a wide area (Schwartz, 1985).
Schwartz also touched several popular ancient Chinese texts like the Book of Poetry, and the Book of documents. Each document was analyzed in terms of significance to the evolution of dynasties as well as to the overall evolution and development of Chinese thought. At this point, Schwartzs ability when it comes to explicating ancient texts appears clearly. It is apparent that he holds some level of mastery when it comes to analyzing and interpreting ancient Chinese texts as he was able to clearly and comprehensively expound on the said texts. It can also be observed that over the years, ancient texts and literature have always been considered some of the most interesting features in history. Thus, the association of these materials to this work gives it one interesting feature that must have served as a retainer of readers interest in the course of reading this book.
Aside from the interesting ancient Chinese texts, one of the most interesting features in this book is the authors leaning towards Confucian teaching. In the second chapter of this book, Schwartz displays a notable and remarkable mastery of Confucian beliefs and teachings as he tried to connect the Chou Dynastys history with the rest of the history of Chinese thought. The author specifically notes,
Despite the obscurity which still envelopes the history of China during the early centuries of the Chou dynasty, this period was to have peculiar symbolic importance. Here we find the period to which Chinas unique sage Confucius looked from the turmoils of his own era, seeking his image of the good society. What he saw and how that relates to what was actually there remains a question of ongoing interest. (Schwartz, 1985, p.40)
At this point, Schwartzs inclination and interest to historical personas also appear evident. His ability to eloquently relay is knowledge on the Confucian belief and way of life manifests his level of mastery when it comes to the more intricate details of Asian history. Also, the authors critical and analytical ability also appears clear in this part as he was able to intelligently connect this complex set of Confucian beliefs and teaching to the dynamic and seemingly developments of the Chinese thought.
Aside from the major Confucian teachings, Schwartz also displayed mastery in his explications of the Analects. In the third chapter of this book, Schwartz also discussed the significance of the Analects to the overall development of Chinese thought. However, in this part of the book, it can be observed that Schwartzs way of discussion grew more complex and technical. This might have been caused by the interrelating ideals and concepts within the context of the Analects.
However, although it was apparent that Schwartzs discussion grew more complex and technical towards the end, he was still able to display a remarkable ability in relating other ideals to his main subject matter. In the succeeding chapters of this book, the author also related the history of Chinese thought to those of other cultures like the Indian culture. In this part, it was apparent that Schwartz was trying to depict the richness of the Chinese historical developments in the context of the richness of other cultures history. This where readers will realize how open and knowledgeable the author is when it comes to the varying cultures in Asia. In every claim, there was always a logical supporting fact which does not just strengthen Schwartzs arguments, but also makes him a notably author due to his perceived credibility when it comes to his utilization of information.
As he delved deeper into the roots of Chinese history, Schwartz was also able to discuss some ideals about the roles of women I ancient china. The roles of women in history can also be considered as one of the most interesting and controversial topics typically discussed. Schwartz was able to mention some details about the role and treatment to women during the earlier years in China, however, this part was not a major feature in the book. As what Schwartz discusses, women and men were actually treated equally especially during the eight of the Confucian tradition. He states,
Since all men and women, whether they be fathers, mothers, teachers, or rulers, tend to be non-loving and self-interested, only Heaven in its transcendental impartiality, ets the pattern for men. (Schwartz, 1985, p.145)
In this part of his discussion, he reveals that one of the most remarkable features at this point of Chinese history is the equality of treatment between men and women. As what the aforementioned excerpt entails, the heavens at that point actually looks down to both man and woman as equally worldly and sinful beings thus, equal treatments were applied to them. However, as what have been mentioned earlier, this part of discussion about the roles of women did not constitute much of the main arguments. This part appeared like a minute detail of the larger discussion on the history of Chinese thought and culture. However, when it comes to all the other features in this book, it can nonetheless be said that Schwartz was able to succeed in justifying the significance of each minute detail and concept he mentioned.
All in all, this book appears like a vehicle for an adventurous and enthralling ride into the dynamic and interesting history of China. Although at some points, Schwartzs phrasing and command of language may seem too complex and incomprehensible due to the technicality of the details he discussed, the significance of such details were always easy to identify as Schwartz was able to state supporting facts and figures. His usage of language also appears commendable as every thought easily goes into a readers comprehension. His organization is also noteworthy as the flow of his thoughts and ideas emerged into a harmonious and flawless weave of concepts and historical accounts, which might have been possible through his smooth transitions. Understandably, an individual who is not that inclined enough to historical accounts may not easily grasp and appreciate this kind of work. However, as for those who are curious and inquisitive about the rich history of China, this work of Schwartz is a fine and remarkable read.
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