Foundations of Eastern Civilization Season 1 Episode 5 The Shang and Writing for the Gods

In this episode of Foundations of Eastern Civilization, titled "The Shang and Writing for the Gods," viewers are taken on a historical journey to explore the development of the Shang Dynasty in ancient China. The episode begins by discussing the society and culture that preceded the Shang, including the invention of the plow and the development of bronze metallurgy.

The episode then delves into the rise of the Shang Dynasty and how it came to power. Viewers learn about the Shang's advanced military tactics and their ability to dominate neighboring tribes. The Shang Dynasty, which ruled from approximately 1600-1046 BCE, was also known for their advances in agriculture, art, and architecture, as well as their intricate system of writing.

The focus then shifts to the Shang's writing system, which was used to communicate with the gods. The Shang believed that their ancestors and gods were able to communicate with them through the oracle bones, which were pieces of turtle or cattle bone that were inscribed with questions or requests for divination. The bones were heated with a bronze tool until they cracked, and the cracks were interpreted by the diviners in order to provide an answer to the question being asked.

Viewers will learn about the complexity of the Shang's writing system, which consisted of over 4,000 characters. The writing system was used primarily for communication with the gods and ancestors, but it was also used for recording historical events and compiling genealogies. The episode explores the different materials used for writing, including bamboo slips and silk, and how the writing system evolved over time.

Throughout the episode, viewers will see how the writing system played a major role in the Shang's religion and their daily lives. The episode explores the various rituals and ceremonies that required writing, such as divination ceremonies, ancestor worship, and feasts. The writing system was an integral part of the Shang's social structure, as it was used to communicate with the gods and to pass down knowledge and traditions from one generation to the next.

The episode concludes by discussing the legacy of the Shang Dynasty, both in terms of their writing system and their overall impact on Chinese civilization. The writing system developed by the Shang was the foundation of the Chinese writing system used today, and it remains an important part of Chinese culture and history. The episode also highlights the Shang's contributions to the arts, sciences, and politics, and their lasting impact on Chinese society and civilization.

Overall, "The Shang and Writing for the Gods" is a fascinating exploration of one of the earliest civilizations in Chinese history. Through the lens of the Shang Dynasty, viewers will gain a deeper understanding of the role of writing in ancient China, as well as the significance of religion and social structure in their culture. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in history, culture, and the development of civilization.