Imperial Power, Rituals and Confucian Hermeneutics (Extended edition)

Since the 21st century, a key mission of new Chinese historical research has been to explore phenomena in Chinese history from within its own historical context. This book is founded on this idea, aiming to offer new perspectives and positions. Using hermeneutics as a method, it investigates various aspects of the emperor system and imperial power in ancient China (up to approximately the 10th century) from the perspective of rituals. It delves into advanced research topics such as sacrificial rites, mourning attire, the “state” system, and the relationship between the ruler and his ministers.

 

The book comprises fourteen essays, divided into three main themes: the evolution of the ritual system and the establishment of the Confucian state, the “state” and the ruler-minister system, and the emperor system in the East Asian world. The fourteenth essay, included as an appendix, discusses whether the emperor system was autocratic. Additionally, the author has written an introduction titled “Revisiting the Confucian State.”

 

The book’s research approach and methodology not only help dispel certain stereotypes about ancient Chinese politics but also lead readers to explore aspects of political history that have been previously overlooked.