Religion, Culture, and Social Life
RELIGION DURING THE SONG DYNASTY
The three main religions that were encouraged by the rulers were:
Confucianism- endorsed official rights because they respected tradition and authority.
Daoism- represented all that was intuitive and antirational in Chinese thought and life.
Buddhism- this religion was introduced to China by merchants traveling on the silk road.
WHAT WORKS OF ART WERE IMPOTANT DURING THE SONG DYNASTY?
Calligraphy reached a high point of new development. It became its own division among art. Porcelain also reached the summit of perfection with a very simple but attractive glazing in white, green, and gray.
Confucius Temple
Chinese Calligraphy
WHAT WAS DAILY LIFE LIKE DURING THE SONG DYNASTY?
Wealthy boys became educated and if they chose, would study for years to pass the civil service exam. Poor boys never went to school and instead, worked in the fields. The father ruled over the wife and children, handling all issues. The women took care of the house and children. Baby girls were often killed because they were not as important as boys. Social life was vibrant. Citizens gathered to view and trade precious artworks at public festivals and private clubs.