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Tea as Nature, Tea as Power in Early Modern China: Tea and the Literati in the Ming Dynasty

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  • Hong Jiang

Abstract

This paper explores the cultural meaning of tea drinking for the literati in the later part of the Ming dynasty (around 1500-1644), using the pair ideas of tea as representing a lifestyle close to nature, and tea as a powerful representation of tasteful life in the society. The dual meanings of tea reinforce each other for the Ming literati, giving them the means and outlets to bolster their self-expression and to distinguish their identity in the social-cultural context of limited career opportunities. I examine the role of tea in tea books, tea-themed paintings, and Ming literati’s engagement in tea clubs and other related activities. This paper contributes to dialogues at the intersections of nature, culture, and history by treating tea as a nature-culture object, highlighting that the pursuit of nature is itself a form of cultural power.

Suggested Citation

  • Hong Jiang, 2023. "Tea as Nature, Tea as Power in Early Modern China: Tea and the Literati in the Ming Dynasty," Asian Culture and History, Canadian Center of Science and Education, vol. 15(1), pages 1-1, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:ibn:ach123:v:15:y:2023:i:1:p:1
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    JEL classification:

    • R00 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - General - - - General
    • Z0 - Other Special Topics - - General

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