@Article{JAS-7-1,
author = {Pak-sheung, NG},
title = {Cultural Interactions and Competitions: The Case of the Song Dynasty (960–1279) and the Southern Tang (937–965)},
journal = {饒宗頤國學院院刊},
year = {2020},
volume = {7},
number = {1},
pages = {255--319},
abstract = {<p style="text-align: justify;">This article aims to elaborate on an overarching sense of competition
in the area of cultural achievement (<em>wenhua</em> <em>jiaoliang</em>) that existed between
the Song and the Southern Tang. By adopting a conceptual framework
characterized by regional significance and dynamic interactions in interpreting
historical events and issues, the article intends to emphasize that cultural
achievement in Song China did not emerge overnight; instead it involved a
long process of assimilation and accommodation that led to the new alignment.
In this sense, the various expressions of contempt, rejection, and even
confrontation that took place during Song Taizu&#39;s reign seemed an inevitable
stage that would lead to adaptation and finally, assimilation. Ultimately, all
cultural interactions and competitions with the Southern Tang were undertaken
by the Song literati for the purpose of establishing dynastic-political
legitimacy and strengthening cultural identity. This article also discusses the
use of anecdotal information (<em>biji</em>) in historical studies. Historians have long
disregarded anecdotal information: it amounted to nothing more than hearsay
in its ability to provide meaningful information while the standard histories
are perceived to unveil actual historical events. However, exploration of both
categories can uncover contradictions, necessitating explanation about the
circumstances under which such hearsay can be useful. The author emphasizes
that despite their structural defects, anecdotes being recorded in the <em>biji</em> are of
particular significance to social and cultural studies. As such, the functions of
anecdotal information should not be totally neglected.</p>},
issn = {},
doi = {https://doi.org/2020-JAS-19892},
url = {https://global-sci.com/article/83928/cultural-interactions-and-competitions-the-case-of-the-song-dynasty-9601279-and-the-southern-tang-937965}
}