Background of Qing Dynasty
Great Qing, the last imperial dynasty of China.
Founded by the Manchu Aisin Gioro clan in Manchuria.
Established in 1636, and ruled China proper for 268 years from 1644 to 1912.
Confucianism
- A system of thought and behaviour that focuses on collectivism and hierarchy with emphasis on virtuous cultivation individually and collectively for a harmonious society.
- A system of interdependent relationships where reverence or otherwise known as “Mianzi” is given for authority and age.
- Emphasises the importance of economic well-being and education where an individual’s achievement is beneficial for the whole family.
Five Relationships
1) Ruler to Subject - Benevolence to Loyalty
2) Parent to Child - Affection to Filial Piety
3) Husband to Wife - Affection to Obedience
4) Elder Siblings to Younger Siblings - Affection to Precedence
5) Friend to Friend - Trust to Honesty
Hierarchy System
The society was divided into:
1) Emperor
2) Officials
3) Aristocracy
4) Degree-holding literati
5) Commoners
6) Mean people - slaves, servants, prostitutes & entertainers
Four occupations:
Landlord, peasant, craftsman and merchant
Taoism
Asserts that one must follow their own duties strictly for harmony in life.
Yang (the light swirl)
Represents brightness, passion and growth
Yin (the dark swirl)
Associated with shadows, femininity, and the trough of a wave
Men are seen as "yang" (active)
Women are seen as "yin" (passive)
The contrasting qualities are believed to be crucial in providing balance.
Buddhism
- Emphasises on karmic retribution where one’s rebirth is according to one’s karma.
- This stresses the importance of living with goodness where any misdeeds will be damned.