Rumor in the Early Chinese Empires

ISBN-13: 9781108479264 / Angielski / Twarda / 2021 / 396 str.

Zongli Lu (Hong Kong University of Science and Technology)

Opis

This is the first English translation of Lu Zongli's major study of rumor in the early Chinese empires. Lu explores how rumor, a non-official form of public opinion, formed and spread through non-official channels of early Chinese history. In this careful investigation, Lu utilizes sources concerning dynastic politics, popular songs, mythology and prophetic texts, dissecting the nature, function and impact of rumor on politics and culture. His work demonstrates the ways that historians can examine views outside of mainstream thinking, interpret group mentality and try to understand the atmosphere of a specific moment in history.

Spis treści

1. Disseminated talk and unverifiable talk; 2. Portentous talk; 3. Popular songs and rhymes; 4. Chen prophecy and prophetic rhyme; 5. Political myths and popular legends; 6. Observations and thoughts.