Foundations of Eastern Civilization

Watch Foundations of Eastern Civilization

  • 2013
  • 1 Season

Foundations of Eastern Civilization is a captivating and informative show that explores the origins and development of the Eastern civilization. Presented by the renowned historian, Craig G. Benjamin, from Grand Valley State University, this great course is part of The Great Courses Signature Collection -- a series that promises to inspire lifelong learning and deliver an overarching understanding of the world's history, cultures, and philosophies.

The show spans across 48 lectures, each lasting for about 30 minutes, and covers an extensive range of topics that are integral to the Eastern civilization. Through a detailed study of the Eastern cultures, ideologies, religions, and social structures, Craig G. Benjamin takes viewers on a journey of discovery that unveils the richness and diversity of the Eastern world.

In the first few lectures, Benjamin delves into the historical context of the Eastern civilization, exploring the earliest known human settlements and the emergence of the first civilizations in the region. From there, he moves on to providing a comprehensive overview of the fundamental religions and philosophies that shaped the Eastern culture, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and Shintoism. He discusses the core doctrines and rituals of these religions, as well as the ways in which they have influenced the art, science, and politics of the Eastern civilization.

Throughout the show, Benjamin also highlights the significant events, personalities, and achievements that have shaped the Eastern civilization. He examines the rise and fall of empires, the impact of trade and commerce, the development of technology and medicine, and the contributions of scholars, scientists, and artists. He also provides insightful analysis of key historical and cultural debates, such as the origins of the Chinese writing system, the legacy of the samurai, and the relationship between religion and politics in India.

One of the unique aspects of Foundations of Eastern Civilization is its focus on cross-cultural comparisons and connections. Benjamin draws on his extensive research and expertise to highlight the similarities and differences between Eastern and Western civilizations. He challenges viewers to question their assumptions and biases, and to gain a more holistic understanding of the human experience across different cultures and epochs.

To supplement his lectures, Benjamin also utilizes a wide range of multimedia resources, such as maps, illustrations, animations, and primary source documents. These resources help to enhance the visual and auditory experience and make the show engaging and accessible for people of all learning styles.

Overall, Foundations of Eastern Civilization is an exceptional show that provides a comprehensive and in-depth overview of the Eastern culture. It is an excellent resource for anyone interested in history, culture, religion, or philosophy and offers a compelling insight into the unique and rich heritage of the Eastern world. Whether watching for personal enrichment or academic study, viewers are sure to be fascinated by this unique examination of the Foundations of Eastern Civilization.

Foundations of Eastern Civilization is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (48 episodes). The series first aired on October 25, 2013.

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Seasons
The Enduring Ideas of Eastern Civilization
48. The Enduring Ideas of Eastern Civilization
October 25, 2013
End your journey through the story of Eastern civilization by reflecting on the role of East Asia in the world today. What insights do the events at Tiananmen Square in 1989 shed on the people of China? Will China eventually democratize? What will become of China's One Child Policy? How will the story of Eastern civilization continue to unfold?
The Rise of the East Asian Tigers
47. The Rise of the East Asian Tigers
October 25, 2013
In the later 20th century, Mao's successors led China through what has been dubbed the "four modernizations" - significant progress in agriculture, industry, science and technology, and defense. See how China has adapted to the global world, the role of Hong Kong, and the emergence of other "Asian tigers" in the global economy.
Isolation and Cold War Conflicts
46. Isolation and Cold War Conflicts
October 25, 2013
Continue your study of the transformation of Eastern civilization in the 20th century with an examination of the cold war and the tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union. You'll investigate the wars in Korea and Vietnam and learn about the global causes and local impact of each conflict.
The People's Republic of China
45. The People's Republic of China
October 25, 2013
The last section of the course turns to a look at the 20th century and Eastern civilization today. Begin with a look at the political rebellions in China that led to the establishment of today's republic. You'll meet Mao Zedong, Sun Yatsen, and Chiang Kai-shek, and you'll witness the conflicts between Nationalist and Communist parties.
Tokugawa and Meiji Japan
44. Tokugawa and Meiji Japan
October 25, 2013
Following a political crisis in the 19th century, Emperor Meiji enacted a complete political, economic, and social reorganization of Japan, which transformed the country into a modern global and military industrial power. Watch as the nation became an imperial power and see what led to the Japanese role in World War II.
Medieval Japan - Samurai and Shoguns
43. Medieval Japan - Samurai and Shoguns
October 25, 2013
Enter what historians sometimes call Japan's "medieval period," in which military governors known as "shoguns" commanded the state. Look at the Kamakura, Muromachi, and Tokugawa Shogunate periods, as well as the famous samurai warriors who played a distinctive role in Japanese life. Then turn to the era's entertainment culture.
Korea Choson - The Last Dynasty
42. Korea Choson - The Last Dynasty
October 25, 2013
By the 19th century, the Choson people had become suspicious of outsiders. See how they navigated Japanese aggression in the 19th century, as well as the competition between Japan, China, and Russia. This lecture concludes with a look at the Japanese occupation of Korea in the first half of the 20th century and sets the stage for the next two lectures.
Korea Choson - Rise of the Yangban
41. Korea Choson - Rise of the Yangban
October 25, 2013
Revisit Korea for a two-lecture "miniseries" on the Choson dynasty, which ruled Korea for more than 500 years. Choson elites adopted a Neo-Confucian political doctrine, expanded Korean territory, and created a tiered social structure that ranged from slaves to land-owning nobility. Explore the many achievements of this dynasty.
The Qing - The Last Emperor of China
40. The Qing - The Last Emperor of China
June 1, 2020
After thousands of years, the dynastic system came to an end in China in 1912 with the abdication of Emperor Puyi at the age of six. Survey the many problems faced by the Qing dynasty in the 19th century - including the Opium Wars, peasant uprisings and rebellions, and the expanding European empires.
The Qing - Nomads Return from the North
39. The Qing - Nomads Return from the North
October 25, 2013
Follow the rise of the Qing dynasty, which followed a series of Manchu raids into China during the 17th century. Professor Benjamin explains why the Ming dynasty failed, and he then introduces you to two of the Qing dynasty's most effective rulers. He concludes with a discussion of why the dynasty began to fail in the 19th century.
Great Treasure Fleets of the Ming
38. Great Treasure Fleets of the Ming
October 25, 2013
Delve into the Ming dynasty's great naval expeditions, led by the fascinating admiral Zheng He, a eunuch who crossed the Indian Ocean and brought rare and exotic treasures back to China. Then turn to Christianity and meet some of the Jesuit missionaries who visited China during the Ming dynasty - and consider some of the important ramifications of these missions.
The Rise of the Ming
37. The Rise of the Ming
October 25, 2013
In the wake of Mongol destruction, China's Ming dynasty emerged as a deeply conservative society dedicated to maintaining stability and tradition. These were peaceful - yet economically stagnant - years marked by problems such as piracy, an inept and disinterested government, famines, and rebellions.
Shaking the Foundation - Mongols in the East
36. Shaking the Foundation - Mongols in the East
October 25, 2013
Look beyond the military success of the Mongols and reflect on the impact their empire had on Eastern civilization. From trade to global communication, the Mongols facilitated a global system that joined East and West Eurasia in a "world system." In this lecture, you'll also meet Marco Polo, Qubilai Khan, and more.
The Mongols Conquer the World
35. The Mongols Conquer the World
October 25, 2013
Who were the Mongols, and how did they create the largest contiguous empire in all of world history? In this lecture, you'll discover the origins of the Mongolian Empire and find out what made the Mongols so effective at expanding their realm. From murder and mayhem to careful planning and discipline, the Mongols have a remarkable story.
Intellectual and Cultural Life of the Song
34. Intellectual and Cultural Life of the Song
October 25, 2013
Experience everyday life in the Song dynasty, a prosperous, cosmopolitan, and very modern society. Consider the culture's foreign influences, the emerging xenophobia, the subordinate role of women, and the dynasty's impact on the global economy. Then see why Song innovations did not spread throughout the rest of the world.
The Industrial Revolution of the Song
33. The Industrial Revolution of the Song
October 25, 2013
Revisit China with an overview of the Song dynasty, whose rulers encouraged impressive advancements in civil administration, industry, education, and the arts. The Southern Song dynasty was responsible for a remarkable series of developments that transformed China into a global economic powerhouse, fueled by innovations such as the production of porcelain, the invention of gunpowder, and more.
Southeast Asia - Indian and Islamic Influences
32. Southeast Asia - Indian and Islamic Influences
October 25, 2013
Trace the spread of Buddhism, Hinduism, and Islam through Southeast Asia and see how these belief systems affected the history of Eastern civilization. This region served as a commercial and cultural hub, where Arabian, Indian, and East Asian cultures came together in interesting ways.
Southeast Asia - Vietnam
31. Southeast Asia - Vietnam
October 25, 2013
Travel back to the mainland and experience the history and culture of Vietnam, from its earliest interactions with ancient China through its colonization by the French in the 18th century. This engaging lecture shows you the tense relations between the Chinese and the Vietnamese, and it sets the stage for the cold war conflicts of the 20th century.
Japan - The World of the Heian
30. Japan - The World of the Heian
October 25, 2013
In this final foray into Japan, you'll study the Heian period, which is one of the most fascinating periods in Japanese history. The Heians created a new political and social system that would dominate the country for a millennium. Unpack the era's political factions and the principles of land ownership, then turn to its artistic and literary achievements.
Japan - Nara and the Great Eastern Temple
29. Japan - Nara and the Great Eastern Temple
October 25, 2013
In 710, Japan's capital was moved to what is now Nara, and this shift marks the beginning of a new era in Japanese history. Tour the splendid new capital city, with its great halls and temples. The period's art, architecture, painting, and transcultural exchange created an extraordinary cosmopolitan environment.
Japan - Treasures of the Tomb Period
28. Japan - Treasures of the Tomb Period
October 25, 2013
Investigate several important stages in the cultural development of Japan: the Bronze Age of the Yayoi culture, the matriarchal Yamatai kingdom and its splendid tombs, and the emergence of the first genuine state in Japan. You'll also look at the ongoing relationships between Japan, Korea, and China, and the impact of Buddhism on Japanese culture.
Japan - Geography and Early Cultures
27. Japan - Geography and Early Cultures
October 25, 2013
Shift your attention to the islands of Japan. In this first of four lectures, you'll explore the nation's geography - notably its mountains, fertile plains, and surrounding sea. Then you'll discover the many rituals and achievements of several early cultures, including the Neolithic people who created what is perhaps the world's first pottery.
Korea - The Koryo
26. Korea - The Koryo
October 25, 2013
Following the end of the Silla kingdom, the Koryo dynasty would rule Korea for nearly 500 years and would be remembered as the most important and successful of all Korea's dynasties. This lecture examines the Koryo dynasty's government, culture, society, and bitter struggle with the Mongols.
Korea - The Unified Silla
25. Korea - The Unified Silla
October 25, 2013
Discover how the Silla kingdom united most of Korea by forging an alliance with the Tang dynasty in China. After examining how the Silla kingdom was organized, you'll turn to the northern Parhae kingdom - the beginning of a long history of division between north and south on the Korean peninsula.
Korea - The Land of Morning Calm
24. Korea - The Land of Morning Calm
October 25, 2013
Continue your study of Korea with a look at how ancient values and ideas, which were firmly rooted in the environment, became the foundations of the culture and history of the Korean people. Consider the early interaction between China and Korea, and witness the emergence of three powerful kingdoms that appeared late in the 1st century B.C.E.
Korea - Mysterious Beginnings
23. Korea - Mysterious Beginnings
October 25, 2013
In the first of four lectures about Korea, Professor Benjamin surveys the nation's rugged terrain, its mountains and caves and rivers. He then uses archaeological evidence to trace the emergence of civilization in the Paleolithic and Neolithic eras, when early clan-based villages produced distinctive pottery and had a fascinating variety of religious beliefs.
Changan and the Glittering Tang
22. Changan and the Glittering Tang
October 25, 2013
Go inside the splendid court of Emperor Xuanzong in the great capital city of Changan. During Xuanzong's 44-year reign in the 8th century, foreign merchants, students, and pilgrims bustled around the court. Stylish women were adorned with jewels from all over Eurasia. Art and poetry flourished, creating one of the most fashionable and cultured courts in the entire world.
The Great Taizong and the Rise of the Tang
21. The Great Taizong and the Rise of the Tang
October 25, 2013
After 350 years of fragmentation, the short-lived Sui dynasty unified China in the year 581, laying the foundation for the great Tang dynasty. See how the Tang dynasty reorganized China into a powerful, prosperous, and culturally sophisticated society by reforming the government and capitalizing on the demand for Chinese products, thanks to the Silk Roads.
The Age of Disunity
20. The Age of Disunity
October 25, 2013
Return to China and the era of fragmentation and conflict that followed the fall of the Han dynasty. Three kingdoms emerged, followed by the Jin and Sui dynasties. In this age of disunity, Buddhism made remarkable inroads into China as an alternative to Confucianism and Daoism, offering hope of salvation during a chaotic period.
Origins of Buddhism
19. Origins of Buddhism
October 25, 2013
Take another excursion away from East Asia - this time to explore the Indian origins of Buddhism. Learn about the gods of the Indus civilization, the origins of the caste system, and the emergence of new religions in the 5th and 6th centuries B.C.E. After studying the life of Siddhartha Gautama, you'll survey the key beliefs and practices of Buddhism.
Silk Roads - The Lost Kushan Empire
18. Silk Roads - The Lost Kushan Empire
October 25, 2013
Examine one of the great "lost civilizations." Although they are largely unknown outside of specialist circles, the Kushans played an immensely important role as middlemen in the trade routes between China and the Roman Empire. Find out who the Kushans were and what makes them so crucial to the story of the Silk Roads.
Silk Roads - Rome and Roads from the West
17. Silk Roads - Rome and Roads from the West
October 25, 2013
Step back from Eastern civilization and explore life from the Roman perspective. After an overview of Roman history, you'll find out how Mediterranean traders organized their end of the exchange with the East and what impact silk and other luxury goods from Asia had on Greco-Roman culture.
Silk Roads - Perils of Camels and Caravans
16. Silk Roads - Perils of Camels and Caravans
October 25, 2013
Discover the many geographical challenges merchants faced as they made their way into Central Asia. Trace the route a caravan would take, west across mountains and deserts, and discover the various middlemen responsible for the transmission of goods and information between China and, eventually, Europe.
Silk Roads - The Envoy Zhang Qian
15. Silk Roads - The Envoy Zhang Qian
October 25, 2013
Meet the Chinese ambassador Zhang Qian, whose epic adventure changed the course of world history. His story begins with an expedition into the neighboring Xiongnu territory, where he was captured and held hostage for 10 years. After a daring escape, he fled into Central Asia and returned to China with fabulous stories, which inspired the emperor to send him on several subsequent missions west.
Silk Roads - In the Footsteps of Nomads
14. Silk Roads - In the Footsteps of Nomads
October 25, 2013
In this first of five lectures on the Silk Roads - the pathways that connected China with the West during the Han dynasty - Professor Benjamin introduces you the pastoral nomads who rivaled the Han dynasty and played a critical role in creating trade routes by migrating into Central Asia.
Triumph and Tragedy - The Later Han
13. Triumph and Tragedy - The Later Han
October 25, 2013
In this second lecture on the Han, you explore the dynasty's deep and vibrant cultural legacy, from its system of education to its porcelain pottery and jade burial suits. You'll also look at the Han's extraordinary innovations in science and technology, including the iron industry and the invention of paper.
Contact with the West - The Early Han
12. Contact with the West - The Early Han
October 25, 2013
To this day, the Chinese still refer to themselves as "the Han people." What made the Han dynasty such an enduring part of Chinese history? How did it lay down important foundations for Eastern civilization? Witness the age of imperial expansion and see how Han dynasty emperors consolidated China under a strong central government - and how that government eventually unraveled.
The Qin and the First Emperor of China
11. The Qin and the First Emperor of China
October 25, 2013
After the Warring States Era, the Qin dynasty emerged. Although the Qin ruled China for only 15 years, the dynasty established a model of government that became the country's template for the next 2,000 years. Meet China's first emperors and study the impact of Qin rule, from political reform to massive building projects.
Great Ideas of the Zhou - Legalism
10. Great Ideas of the Zhou - Legalism
October 25, 2013
Conclude your survey of the Zhou dynasty's great philosophical traditions with a look at the principles of Legalism - strict laws enforced by gruesome punishment in order to create an orderly state. Meet Legalism's key thinkers and examine the philosophy's legacy in defining Eastern societies through the present day.
Great Ideas of the Zhou - Daoism
9. Great Ideas of the Zhou - Daoism
October 25, 2013
Continue your study of great Chinese philosophy with a thorough examination of Daoism, which runs counter to Confucianism's rationality and civic engagement. Daoism offers a path for humans to live in harmony with the natural world and the cosmos by retreating from the world of politics and society.
Great Ideas of the Zhou - Later Confucianism
8. Great Ideas of the Zhou - Later Confucianism
October 25, 2013
Return to the followers of Confucius and consider two contrasting views of human nature and political theory. While Mencius believed humans were innately good and were entrusted with the Mandate of Heaven, Xunzi believed human nature was essentially evil. Both philosophers, however, remained faithful to Confucius's belief in the need for well-educated, ethical rulers.
Great Ideas of the Zhou - Confucianism
7. Great Ideas of the Zhou - Confucianism
October 25, 2013
During the Warring States Era at the end of the Zhou dynasty, several great Chinese thinkers considered the nature of society and government. Since that era, Confucianism has been the guiding philosophy of China and much of East Asia for more than 2,500 years. Find out about Confucius's life, his philosophy, and his followers.
The Zhou and the Mandate of Heaven
6. The Zhou and the Mandate of Heaven
October 25, 2013
Unpack a core theme in the foundation of Chinese government. The Mandate of Heaven - a belief that seizure of power could be justified as an expression of divine will - would resonate in Chinese political history for 3,000 years. Learn about the Zhou's overthrow of the Shang dynasty and the rich legacy of the Zhou dynasty.
The Shang and Writing for the Gods
5. The Shang and Writing for the Gods
October 25, 2013
In this second lecture on the Shang dynasty, learn about the enigmatic "oracle bones" and the origins of Chinese writing. Then turn to the Shang society's social organization, religious practices, and cosmology, and find out how one of the core cultural and philosophical beliefs of Eastern civilization - the concept of yin and yang - emerged during the Shang dynasty.
The Coming of the Shang
4. The Coming of the Shang
October 25, 2013
While we still don't know much about the Xia dynasty, we have indisputable evidence that the Shang dynasty was responsible for the development of Chinese writing, the creation of a complex social structure, and the construction of the first large cities in East Asia. In this lecture, you'll visit the cities and tombs of the first significant Chinese dynasty.
Early China and the Mysterious Xia
3. Early China and the Mysterious Xia
October 25, 2013
Go back to the beginnings of Chinese history and see what archaeological evidence tells us about humans in the Paleolithic and Neolithic eras. Then look at the fragmented cultures of early civilizations - including the mysterious Xia dynasty, which, until recently, was thought to be a purely mythical culture.
Yin and Yang - The Geography of China
2. Yin and Yang - The Geography of China
October 25, 2013
Start with the geography and climate of China, the very cradle of Eastern civilization. After looking at the geographical regions of China, you'll explore the country's two great river systems - the Huang Ye (or Yellow River) and the Yangtze (or Chang Jiang) - which have divided Chinese culture into two distinct regions.
Journey to the East
1. Journey to the East
October 25, 2013
Embark on your exciting voyage through the geography, history, people, and culture of Eastern civilization with a reflection on three key words of the course. What do we mean by "Eastern"? By "civilization"? By "foundations"? This lecture readies you for the fascinating journey to come. #History
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Where to Watch Foundations of Eastern Civilization
Foundations of Eastern Civilization is available for streaming on the The Great Courses Signature Collection website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch Foundations of Eastern Civilization on demand at Apple TV Channels, Amazon Prime, Amazon and Kanopy.
  • Premiere Date
    October 25, 2013
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