In Search of the Shu Kingdom: Ancient Legends and New Archaeological Discoveries in Sichuan

Author: Bangben P.

Source: Journal of East Asian Archaeology, Volume 4, Numbers 1-4, 2002 , pp. 75-99(25)

Publisher: BRILL

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Abstract:

Legendary accounts on the ancient history of Sichuan are reevaluated in the light of recent archaeological discoveries. The transmitted texts allow distinguishing two different strains of such accounts, one that emphasizes indigenous lore, and another that integrates it into the master narrative of Chinese civilization. The archaeological materials suggest that both may reflect some elements of historical reality.The author makes a preliminary attempt to coordinate specific archaeological finds with each of the five major rulers or ruling groups of ancient Shu. Rather than being successive dynasties, these may have inhabited western Sichuan simultaneously, taking turns in unifying the area under their rule.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: 10.1163/156852302322454503

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