HIST 4241 - [Religion and the State in Chinese History]

(crosslisted) ASIAN 4422, CAPS 4241, RELST 4241
(GB) (HA-AS)

Spring. Next Offered: 2020-2021. 4 credits. Student option grading.

J. Barwick.

Religion and politics have had a complex relationship in Chinese history. While various systems of belief have been an integral part of state ideology or co-opted by the state to bolster its authority, they have also provided a potent basis for challenging the established order and fomenting rebellion. This course explores some of the major dimensions of this dynamic from ancient times up until the present day, with primary focus on the modern period. Considering such varied phenomena as imperial ritual sacrifice, the Taiping Rebellion, Tibetan Buddhism, and the current resurgence of religion under Communist rule, we will reflect on the dominant patterns and unique aspects of China’s church-state model. (HNU)(HAN)