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Literati China

Examinations, Neo-Confucianism, and Later Imperial China

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Based on 6 ratings
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Peter K. Bol and William C. Kirby

Fundamental changes in government, the economy, and broader society took place between the 8th and 11th centuries in China. The state aristocracy gave way to new literati elite: educated men who sought to enter government through competitive examinations. A new kind of Confucianism also took shape, which prized the moral autonomy of individuals. With this, the later imperial period of China’s history begins.

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Fundamental changes in government, the economy, and broader society took place between the 8th and 11th centuries in China. The state aristocracy gave way to new literati elite: educated men who sought to enter government through competitive examinations. A new kind of Confucianism also took shape, which prized the moral autonomy of individuals. With this, the later imperial period of China’s history begins.

From our series on Chinese history and culture, this course focuses on the changes brought by the Tang-Song transition, including the reconfiguration of power, urbanization, Neo-Confucianism, and the shared values as expressed in the state examination system.

Join us to learn how a shifting social and political elite ultimately brings unity to China, ushering in an age of global empire.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • How to break history into periods based on social, political, economic, intellectual, and cultural changes.
  • How to develop your own unique approach to history.
  • How to gain a critical appreciation of china’s literary, philosophical, political, and cultural resources.
  • How to express ideas more clearly and confidently.
  • How to think critically through the study of primary and secondary sources.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Suitable for individuals curious about Chinese history and culture looking to enhance their understanding of the Tang-Song transition
Led by instructors Peter K. Bol and William C. Kirby, notable scholars in Chinese history and culture
Provides a comprehensive examination of the historical period, covering key aspects such as political shifts, urbanization, philosophical developments, and the state examination system
Assists learners in comprehending the social, cultural, and intellectual forces leading to China's imperial period
Aids in developing a critical understanding of primary and secondary sources related to Chinese history

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Reviews summary

Deep dive into literati china

According to learners, this course offers a positive, in-depth look at a crucial period in Chinese history. Many appreciate the knowledgeable instructor and the focus on the literati elite, examination system, and Neo-Confucianism. Some find the primary source readings challenging but rewarding, while others note that the course material is dense and may require prior knowledge of Chinese history for optimal comprehension.
Highlights examinations and Neo-Confucianism.
"The focus on the examination system and its role in society was fascinating."
"Understanding Neo-Confucianism through this period was incredibly helpful."
"I really enjoyed the parts discussing the rise of the literati."
Instructor's expertise highly valued.
"The professor is clearly an expert in the field and very engaging."
"His lectures were insightful and brought the material to life."
"I appreciated the depth of knowledge the instructor shared on the topic."
Better for those with prior history.
"I found this course quite challenging as a complete beginner to Chinese history."
"Having some background knowledge definitely helps in navigating the content."
"Might be difficult if you haven't studied this era before."
Content is rich but can be challenging.
"This course is very dense and covers a lot of complex ideas quickly."
"The readings were quite academic and sometimes difficult to follow without supplementary research."
"You need to dedicate significant time to absorb all the information presented."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Literati China: Examinations, Neo-Confucianism, and Later Imperial China with these activities:
Read 'China: A New History' by John Keay
Gain a comprehensive overview of Chinese history, including the Tang-Song transition period, through a well-written and engaging narrative.
View Himalaya: Exploring the Roof of the World on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the book's introduction and chapter summaries to get a general idea of its structure and content.
  • Read each chapter carefully, taking notes on key points and unfamiliar concepts.
  • Complete the chapter review questions or discussion prompts at the end of each chapter to test your understanding.
Review fundamental Chinese history concepts
Review the basic concepts and terminology of Chinese history to build a strong foundation for understanding the Tang-Song transition.
Browse courses on Chinese History
Show steps
  • Read through your notes or textbooks from previous history courses that covered Chinese history.
  • Take practice quizzes or review flashcards to test your knowledge of key events, figures, and concepts.
  • Attend a refresher workshop or online lecture on Chinese history.
Explore online resources on the Tang-Song transition
Supplement your understanding of the Tang-Song transition by accessing reputable online resources, such as academic articles, documentaries, and museum websites.
Show steps
  • Search for articles on scholarly databases like JSTOR or Google Scholar.
  • Watch documentaries on streaming platforms like YouTube or Netflix.
  • Visit the websites of museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art or the British Museum for virtual exhibitions and online resources.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a timeline of the Tang-Song transition
Develop a visual representation of the key events and developments during the Tang-Song transition to enhance your understanding of the chronology and sequence of events.
Show steps
  • Identify the major events and turning points of the Tang-Song transition.
  • Research the dates and significance of these events.
  • Use a tool like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets to create a timeline, plotting the events in chronological order.
  • Optionally, add brief descriptions or annotations to provide additional context.
Join a study group to discuss the Tang-Song transition
Engage with fellow learners to exchange ideas, clarify concepts, and enhance your understanding of the Tang-Song transition through collaborative discussions.
Show steps
  • Find a study group or organize one with classmates or online.
  • Set regular meeting times and establish ground rules for effective discussions.
  • Take turns presenting different aspects of the Tang-Song transition and facilitate discussions.
Practice analyzing primary sources from the Tang-Song transition
Enhance your critical thinking skills by examining primary sources such as historical documents, inscriptions, and literature from the Tang-Song transition.
Show steps
  • Identify primary sources related to the Tang-Song transition.
  • Read and analyze the sources carefully, paying attention to their content, context, and biases.
  • Write short summaries or interpretations of the sources to demonstrate your understanding.
Attend a workshop on the history and culture of the Tang-Song era
Deepen your understanding of the Tang-Song transition by attending a workshop led by experts in Chinese history and culture.
Show steps
  • Research and identify relevant workshops offered by universities, museums, or cultural organizations.
  • Register for the workshop and prepare any necessary materials.
  • Attend the workshop, actively participate in discussions, and take notes on key insights.

Career center

Learners who complete Literati China: Examinations, Neo-Confucianism, and Later Imperial China will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Historian
This course covers topics including examinations, neo-confucianism, urbanization, literary history, and the political elite. A Historian studies and interprets the past by examining historical documents and sources. In this role, you will analyze historical events, interpret data, and write reports. Taking this course would be particularly helpful to you because you will develop skills in critical thinking, research, and writing, all of which are essential for a successful career as a historian.
See salaries and explore the career path for Historian
Museum curator
As a Museum Curator, you will be responsible for planning and managing environmental control over museum collections. You will also conduct instructional, research, or public service activities of the institution. You will need to have a strong understanding of the history and culture of the objects in the museum's collection. The topics covered in this course may help you develop a strong foundation in Chinese history and culture, which would be beneficial for your career as a Museum Curator. In this course, you will learn about the development of Chinese society, the role of the literati, and the impact of Confucianism on Chinese culture.
See salaries and explore the career path for Museum curator
Archivist
In this role, you will be responsible for organizing, preserving, and cataloging historical documents and records. You may also assist researchers in accessing and using these materials. As an Archivist, you will need a solid understanding of history and archival practices. This course would be a valuable addition to your education as it will help you develop a foundation in Chinese history and culture. You will also learn about the role of the literati in Chinese society and the development of the examination system.
See salaries and explore the career path for Archivist
Anthropologist
As an Anthropologist, you will study the behavior, origin, and development of humans. This may involve studying human culture, language, archaeology, and physical characteristics. It may also involve studying the relationship between humans and their environment. You may work in a variety of settings, including universities, museums, and research institutions. This course may be useful as it will help you develop a foundation in Chinese history and culture. You will also learn about the role of the literati in Chinese society and the development of the examination system.
See salaries and explore the career path for Anthropologist
Archaeologist
Archaeologists study past peoples and cultures by excavating, analyzing, and interpreting physical remains like artifacts, buildings, and monuments. Cultural and historical knowledge is crucial to understanding the significance of archaeological discoveries. Taking this course could be useful to you because it can help you gain a deeper understanding of Chinese history, which can be helpful for interpreting archaeological findings in China. You will also learn about the role of the literati in Chinese society and the development of the examination system.
See salaries and explore the career path for Archaeologist
Sociologist
Sociologists study human society and social behavior. This may include studying social institutions, social change, and social problems. You will need to have a strong understanding of social theory and research methods. This course may be useful as it will help you develop a foundation in Chinese history and culture. You will also learn about the role of the literati in Chinese society and the development of the examination system.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sociologist
Political Scientist
Political Scientists study political systems and political behavior. This may include studying government structures, public policy, and international relations. They also study the role of political institutions in society. You will need to have a strong understanding of political theory and research methods. This course may be useful as it will help you develop a foundation in Chinese history and culture. You will also learn about the role of the literati in Chinese society and the development of the examination system.
See salaries and explore the career path for Political Scientist
Economist
Economists study the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. This may include studying economic theory, economic policy, and economic forecasting. You will need to have a strong understanding of economic theory and research methods. This course may be useful as it will help you develop a foundation in Chinese history and culture. You will also learn about the role of the literati in Chinese society and the development of the examination system.
See salaries and explore the career path for Economist
Geographer
Geographers study the Earth's surface and its human and natural environments. This may include studying physical geography, human geography, and environmental geography. You will need to have a strong understanding of geography and research methods. This course may be useful as it will help you develop a foundation in Chinese history and culture. You will also learn about the role of the literati in Chinese society and the development of the examination system.
See salaries and explore the career path for Geographer
Theologian
Theologians study the nature of God and religious beliefs. They may also study the history of religion, religious texts, and religious practices. You will need to have a strong understanding of theology and religious studies. This course may be useful as it will help you develop a foundation in Chinese history and culture. You will also learn about the role of the literati in Chinese society and the development of the examination system.
See salaries and explore the career path for Theologian
Philosopher
Philosophers study the fundamental nature of reality and existence. They may also study ethics, metaphysics, and epistemology. You will need to have a strong understanding of philosophy and research methods. This course may be useful as it will help you develop a foundation in Chinese history and culture. You will also learn about the role of the literati in Chinese society and the development of the examination system.
See salaries and explore the career path for Philosopher
Linguist
Linguists study human language. This may include studying linguistics, phonetics, and semantics. You will need to have a strong understanding of linguistics and research methods. This course may be useful as it will help you develop a foundation in Chinese history and culture. You will also learn about the role of the literati in Chinese society and the development of the examination system.
See salaries and explore the career path for Linguist
Journalist
Journalists gather, analyze, and report on news and current events. They may work for newspapers, magazines, websites, or television and radio stations. You will need to have a strong understanding of journalism and research methods. This course may be useful as it will help you develop a foundation in Chinese history and culture. You will also learn about the role of the literati in Chinese society and the development of the examination system.
See salaries and explore the career path for Journalist
Teacher
Teachers develop, implement, and evaluate instructional plans to facilitate student learning. They may work in a variety of settings, including schools, colleges, and universities. You will need to have a strong understanding of education and teaching methods. This course may be useful as it will help you develop a foundation in Chinese history and culture. You will also learn about the role of the literati in Chinese society and the development of the examination system.
See salaries and explore the career path for Teacher
Lawyer
Lawyers advise and represent clients in legal matters. They may specialize in a particular area of law, such as criminal law, civil law, or corporate law. You will need to have a strong understanding of the law and legal procedures. This course may be useful as it will help you develop a foundation in Chinese history and culture. You will also learn about the role of the literati in Chinese society and the development of the examination system.
See salaries and explore the career path for Lawyer

Reading list

We've selected 25 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Literati China: Examinations, Neo-Confucianism, and Later Imperial China.
Cover image
The Cambridge History of China: pt. 1. The Sung...
Save
Thoroughly describes the political, economic, and cultural changes that China experienced during the Tang-Song transition.
The Cambridge History of China, Vol. 5 Part One:...
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
The Great Civilized Conversation
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of Neo-Confucianism, its origins, development, and influence on Chinese thought and culture.
The Great Civilized Conversation: Education for a...
Paperback
$$
The Great Civilized Conversation: Education for a...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Chu Hsi and the “Ta Hsueh”: Neo-Confucian...
Save
Provides foundational knowledge on Neo-Confucianism, its historical development, key concepts, and its enduring impact on Chinese thought and culture.
Chu Hsi and the “Ta Hsueh”: Neo-Confucian...
Paperback
Check
Chu Hsi and the “Ta Hsueh”: Neo-Confucian...
Kindle Edition
Check
The Cambridge History of China: Volume 5, The Sung...
Save
This first part of volume five gives a comprehensive account of the political, social, economic, and cultural developments which led to the rise, apogee and decline of the Sung Dynasty, and which had so much influence on subsequent Chinese history.
The Cambridge History of China, Vol. 5 Part One:...
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
Finding China's Lost Generation
Save
This comprehensive single-volume history of China provides a broad overview that encompasses the Tang-Song transition and its significance.
Finding China's Lost Generation: The Beijing Fifty...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Sources of Chinese Tradition
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the Confucian tradition in East Asia, including its origins, development, and influence on Chinese thought and culture.
Sources of Chinese Tradition (Volume One)
Hardcover
$$$$
Sources of Chinese Tradition: Volume 1: From...
Unknown Binding
$$$$
Cover image
Disputers of the Tao
Save
Provides a detailed overview of the origins of Neo-Confucianism, focusing on its philosophical and intellectual roots.
Disputers of the Tao: Philosophical Argument in...
Paperback
$$
Disputers of the Tao: Philosophical Argument in...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Water Kingdom
Save
This in-depth study of the examination system in late imperial China offers insights into its role in shaping the literati elite and consolidating imperial power.
The Water Kingdom: A Secret History of China
Paperback
$$
(中文) The Water Kingdom: A Secret History of China...
Hardcover
$$
The Water Kingdom: A Secret History of China
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Enduring Democracy
Save
Provides a detailed overview of the examination system in late imperial China, how it influence Chinese culture and society.
The Enduring Democracy
Paperback
$$$
The Enduring Democracy
Paperback
$$$$
The Enduring Democracy
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Art and Artists of Twentieth-Century China
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the arts of China, including its painting, sculpture, architecture, and music.
Art and Artists of Twentieth-Century China
Hardcover
$$$
Cover image
A History of Chinese Civilization
Save
This detailed examination of the Sung dynasty provides a comprehensive overview of the political, economic, and cultural developments that characterized this period of Chinese history.
A History of Chinese Civilization
Paperback
$$$
A History of Chinese Civilization (folio Society 2...
Hardcover
$$$$
A History of Chinese Civilization
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Hong Kong Movers and Stayers
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the social life of the Chinese people, including their customs, traditions, and beliefs.
Hong Kong Movers and Stayers: Narratives of Family...
Paperback
$$
Hong Kong Movers and Stayers: Narratives of Family...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Confusions of Pleasure
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the economic history of China, from the Tang Dynasty to the present day.
The Confusions of Pleasure: Commerce and Culture in...
Paperback
$$
(中文) The Confusions of Pleasure: Commerce And Culture in...
Hardcover
$$
(中文) The Confusions of Pleasure (Chinese Edition)
Paperback
$$$
The Confusions of Pleasure: Commerce and Culture in...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Writing Early China
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the cultural history of China, from its earliest beginnings to the present day.
Writing Early China (Suny Series in Chinese...
Paperback
$$
Writing Early China (SUNY series in Chinese...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Himalaya
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of China, from its earliest beginnings to the present day.
Himalaya: Exploring the Roof of the World
Hardcover
$$
The Gilgit Game: The Explorers of the Western...
Hardcover
$$$
Himalaya: Exploring the Roof of the World
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
An Unwritten Future
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of modern China, from the Opium Wars to the present day.
An Unwritten Future: Realism and Uncertainty in...
Hardcover
$$
An Unwritten Future: Realism and Uncertainty in...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Chronicles of the Pathan Kings of Dehli
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of China, from its earliest beginnings to the present day.
The Revenue Resources of the Mughal Empire in India...
Paperback
$$
The Chronicles of the Pathán Kings of Dehli:...
Hardcover
$$
The Chronicles of the Pathán Kings of Dehli:...
Leather Bound
$$$
Cover image
The Cambridge Illustrated History of China
Save
This comprehensive overview of the Tang dynasty offers a detailed exploration of its political, economic, and cultural achievements, as well as its impact on later Chinese history.
The Cambridge Illustrated History of China
Paperback
$$
The Cambridge Illustrated History of China
Paperback
$$
The Cambridge Illustrated History of China
Hardcover
$$
The Cambridge Illustrated History of China
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Senses of the City
Save
This specialized study of the Southern Song dynasty provides a comprehensive examination of its political and economic history, as well as its cultural achievements.
Senses of the City: Perceptions of Hangzhou and...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
China's New Confucianism
Save
This lucid introduction to Neo-Confucianism presents its key concepts, historical development, and its influence on East Asian thought and culture.
China's New Confucianism: Politics and Everyday...
Hardcover
$$
China's New Confucianism: Politics and Everyday...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Poetics of Early Chinese Thought
Save
This scholarly work explores the development of Chinese historiography during the Tang dynasty, providing insights into the changing nature of historical writing and its role in shaping historical narratives.
The Poetics of Early Chinese Thought: How the...
Paperback
$$
The Poetics of Early Chinese Thought: How the...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Wealth Into Power
Save
This broad overview of Chinese political history includes a substantial discussion of the Tang-Song transition and its implications for governance and political institutions.
Wealth into Power: The Communist Party's Embrace of...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Examination Culture in Imperial China
Save
This concise yet comprehensive overview of the Chinese examination system provides historical context and insights into its role in shaping Chinese society and culture.
The Examination Culture in Imperial China
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
The History of Chinese Civilization
Save
While not directly focused on the Tang-Song transition, this book provides valuable background knowledge on the early development of Chinese civilization, which is essential for understanding the later historical periods.
The History of Chinese Civilization (China Insights)
Kindle Edition
$$$
(中文) Take History As A Mirror (The Evolution and Choice...
Hardcover
$$
Cover image
Great Power Clashes along the Maritime Silk Road
Save
This concise overview of imperial Chinese history includes a chapter covering the Tang-Song transition, providing a broader context for understanding the course material.
Great Power Clashes along the Maritime Silk Road:...
Hardcover
$$
Great Power Clashes along the Maritime Silk Road:...
Kindle Edition
$$

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Course image
Rating
5.0 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star
Effort
1 to 3 hours per week for 15 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
Harvard University
Instructors
Peter K. Bol
William C. Kirby
Language
English
Transcripts
English 中文
This course belongs to a collection called History of China: Bronze Age to the Last Dynasties. It's comprised of five courses:
  1. China’s Political and Intellectual Foundations: From Sage Kings to Confucius
  2. China’s First Empires and the Rise of Buddhism
  3. Cosmopolitan Tang: Aristocratic Culture in China
  4. Global China: From the Mongols to the Ming
  5. Literati China: Examinations, Neo-Confucianism, and Later Imperial China (viewing)
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Suitable for individuals curious about Chinese history and culture looking to enhance their understanding of the Tang-Song transition
Led by instructors Peter K. Bol and William C. Kirby, notable scholars in Chinese history and culture
Provides a comprehensive examination of the historical period, covering key aspects such as political shifts, urbanization, philosophical developments, and the state examination system
Assists learners in comprehending the social, cultural, and intellectual forces leading to China's imperial period
Aids in developing a critical understanding of primary and secondary sources related to Chinese history
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