africa.chinadaily.com.cn
Shang Dynasty Exhibition Reveals Early Chinese Civilization
The "This Is the Shang" exhibition at Beijing's Grand Canal Museum showcases 338 cultural relics, including inscribed oracle bones, bronze and jade artifacts, highlighting the Shang Dynasty's significant contributions to early Chinese civilization and its lasting impact on subsequent dynasties.
- What is the significance of the oracle bone inscriptions from the Yinxu Ruins in understanding the Shang Dynasty?
- The Shang Dynasty, previously shrouded in mystery due to limited historical records, has been extensively documented through the discovery of inscribed oracle bones from the Yinxu Ruins. These bones, used for divination and ancestor worship, have revealed a detailed lineage of 31 Shang kings, corroborating Sima Qian's historical accounts with minor discrepancies. This discovery fundamentally reshaped our understanding of early Chinese history.
- How did the discovery of oracle bones resolve previous uncertainties about Sima Qian's historical account of the Shang Dynasty?
- The oracle bone inscriptions provide tangible evidence of the Shang Dynasty's existence and societal practices. By comparing the bone inscriptions' chronology with Sima Qian's writings in Shiji, scholars have validated the accuracy of his historical record, resolving long-standing doubts. The ancestor worship practiced by the Shang people is directly responsible for the preservation of this crucial historical data.
- What broader implications does the Shang Dynasty's bronze-casting culture hold for understanding the development of early Chinese civilization?
- The exhibition, "This Is the Shang," showcases the cultural significance of the Shang Dynasty, highlighting its profound and lasting influence on subsequent Chinese dynasties. The display of Shang bronze artifacts, including the reunited owl-shaped wine vessels of Fu Hao, emphasizes the sophisticated craftsmanship and social structures of the era. This detailed portrayal of Shang culture reveals its foundational role in shaping Chinese civilization, from its ritualistic practices to its bronze-casting techniques.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The narrative emphasizes the archaeological discoveries and their validation of Sima Qian's writings, framing the Shang Dynasty primarily through the lens of these findings. The headline and introduction focus on the exhibition and the oracle bones, potentially giving less weight to other crucial aspects of Shang civilization. The positive framing of the exhibition might also downplay potential limitations or controversies in the interpretation of the artifacts.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and descriptive. However, phrases like "groundbreaking discoveries" and "precious treasures" convey a sense of awe and wonder, potentially influencing the reader's perception. While not overtly biased, these choices could be replaced with more neutral terms like "significant discoveries" and "important artifacts".
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the Shang Dynasty's bronze work and its influence on later dynasties, potentially overlooking other significant aspects of Shang culture, such as their social structures, religious beliefs beyond ancestor worship, or daily life. While the exhibition's scope is acknowledged, a more balanced portrayal might include these elements for a more complete understanding.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplified view of Sima Qian's work. While acknowledging some minor discrepancies, it doesn't fully explore alternative interpretations or challenges to his historical accounts. The presentation of Sima Qian as the "top authority" might overshadow potential complexities and alternative perspectives.
Gender Bias
The article mentions Fu Hao, a female general, which is positive. However, the description focuses on her status as a consort and wife, which might reinforce traditional gender roles rather than emphasizing her military achievements. The article could benefit from a more balanced portrayal of gender roles in Shang society, including evidence of women's roles beyond those of wives and mothers.
Sustainable Development Goals
The exhibition, "This Is the Shang," highlights the Shang Dynasty's early writing system, jiaguwen, which was inscribed on oracle bones. The exhibition's focus on this early writing system contributes to education and understanding of China's history and cultural development. The inclusion of artifacts related to the movie "Ne Zha 2" further demonstrates the use of historical artifacts in modern media, which can be used as educational tools.