One of the most striking things about Ancient China is the degree of continuity of culture over time. Describe and discuss two ways Chinese Culture was continuous/consistent from the Shang Dynasty to the Han Dynasty. What stayed the same over time, and why?
Then Describe the transitions between dynasties. Were they peaceful? Or not? What happened when there were external threats to Chinese political control?
Finally, what role did Chinese philosophy play in legitimizing rulers? Was Chinese philosophy an aspect of continuity?
Describe and discuss three ways that Ancient China differed from the other ancient river civilizations discussed thus far. What factors made China unique (name at least two)? What were the key aspects of social and economic life in early China? What were the three philosophies that developed in Ancient China, and what role did each play (and when) in Ancient Chinese society? How was each used by emperors?
