A History of Chinese Civilization – Jacques Gernet – 1996, Cambridge University Press
A History of Chinese Civilization
Jacques Gernet’s A History of Chinese Civilization is a comprehensive exploration of Chinese history from ancient times up to the mid-20th century. The work moves beyond a simple recounting of dynastic successions and political events. Instead, it delves into the social, economic, and cultural structures that shaped Chinese society over millennia. Key themes include the development of Chinese thought – Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism – their interplay with political power, and their impact on everyday life. Gernet also examines the role of the examination system in shaping the elite, the structure of the family, and the dynamics between agriculture and commerce. A significant portion of the work is dedicated to understanding Chinese intellectual life and the evolution of artistic and literary traditions.
Historical / Cultural Context
Published originally in French in 1982 (and subsequently translated into English), Gernet’s work represented a shift in Western scholarship on China. Prior histories often focused on political narratives and treated Chinese civilization as static and unchanging. Gernet, drawing on extensive research in Chinese sources, presented a dynamic and nuanced view, highlighting internal tensions, periods of upheaval, and the continuous process of adaptation and innovation. The book emerged during a period of increasing Western engagement with China following decades of isolation and offered a more sophisticated understanding of the country’s complex past, contributing to a broader academic re-evaluation of Chinese history. It’s important to note that scholarship on Chinese history has continued to evolve since the publication of this book, with new archaeological discoveries and reinterpretations of existing sources.
Who This Book Is For
This work is suited for readers with a general interest in Chinese history and culture, as well as students and scholars in related fields. While the scope is broad, Gernet writes in an accessible style, making it suitable for those without prior knowledge of the subject. However, the depth of analysis and the sheer volume of information make it a valuable resource for advanced academic study. It’s particularly useful for those seeking a holistic understanding of Chinese civilization, encompassing its political, social, economic, and intellectual dimensions. Individuals interested in the interplay between belief systems and social structures will find the discussions of Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism particularly relevant.
Further Reading
- The Cambridge History of China (various authors): A multi-volume series providing detailed scholarly coverage of different periods in Chinese history.
- China: A New History by John King Fairbank and Merle Goldman: A more concise, single-volume history offering a broad overview of Chinese civilization.
- Sources of Chinese Tradition compiled by Wm. Theodore de Bary and others: A collection of primary source readings offering direct access to key texts and documents in Chinese history and thought.
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