Customer Reviews

China's Golden Age: Everyday Life in the Tang Dynasty

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

This is an interesting, but lightweight read. Benn doesn't provide notes or a bibliography, just a suggested readings list (which is excellent). For the causal reader of history or Chinese culture, this is entertaining and easy-to-read book. For the serious scholar or those wanting something more to sink their teeth into, I recommend skipping straight to the suggested readings list.

A light, easy to read rendition of Tang history. Focuses on the everyday aspects of Tang society. The subject matter is neatly presented in chapters labeled Society; Cities and Urban Life; Clothes and Hygiene; Food and Feasts; or Leisure and Entertainment. I appreciated the book's drawings, especially of Tang hairstyles and clothing, which heavily influenced Japanese traditional clothing thereafter. Overall, a peek into Tang commoners' daily life is a refreshing change from usual history material.

Unfortunately, I have to deduct 1 star here because the author, for unknown reason, kept referring to sixth Tang emperor Xuanzong by his anglicized moniker "Illustrious August", which casts a fortune cookie feel over an otherwise enjoyable read.

If ancient Chinese history is more in your interest, I suggest reading this book. Benn does a thorough investigation of Tang Dynasty life, encompassing religion, household life, and the aristocracy. This is a must read if you find this era of Chinese history fascinating... I enjoyed his section about how the Daoist and Buddhist were constantly trying to lure people into their churches, and also how positions within the Buddhist church could be bought- and people think Catholics were bad!

A very informative publication of life in the Tang dynasty.
Well written (although sometimes meandering) and an easy read.

The book i got back was totally messed up. It started on page 9 with no intro or anything in the beginning. It also began with page 9 and other pages spread throughout the book in no particular order. Would have sent it back but was to late on the return policy.