Overview

Uncover the fascinating origins of East Asian civilization in this comprehensive course that explores the history of China, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia. In “Foundations of Eastern Civilization,” Professor Craig Benjamin of Grand Valley State University will guide you through 48 lectures that delve into the development of these influential regions, tracing their histories, politics, cultures, and more.

By examining the foundational aspects of Eastern civilization, you will gain insights into how these cultures have shaped the modern world. Understanding this context is critical, as both Eastern and Western narratives contribute to the global story.

Course Structure

• Journey to the East (30 min)
  • An introduction to the geography, history, and culture of Eastern civilization.

2. Yin and Yang-The Geography of China (28 min)
   • Explore China’s geography and its impact on cultural development.

3. Early China and the Mysterious Xia (30 min)
   • Investigate the origins of Chinese civilization and the Xia dynasty.

• The Coming of the Shang (28 min)
  • Discover the advancements achieved during the Shang dynasty.

5. The Shang and Writing for the Gods (30 min)
   • Learn about the oracle bones and the inception of Chinese writing.

6. The Zhou and the Mandate of Heaven (30 min)
   • Understand the emergence of the Mandate of Heaven and the Zhou dynasty’s legacy.

7. Great Ideas of the Zhou-Confucianism (29 min)
   • Examine the philosophy of Confucius during the Warring States Era.

8. Great Ideas of the Zhou-Later Confucianism (29 min)
   • Explore the differing views of Confucian followers, Mencius and Xunzi.

9. Great Ideas of the Zhou-Daoism (29 min)
   • Delve into Daoism as a counterpoint to Confucian ideals.

• Great Ideas of the Zhou-Legalism (28 min)
  • Discuss the principles of Legalism and its role in organizing society.

11. The Qin and the First Emperor of China (29 min)
    • Learn about the Qin dynasty’s influence and its lasting governmental structures.

12. Contact with the West-The Early Han (29 min)
    • Examine the Han dynasty’s significance in establishing a strong central government.

13. Triumph and Tragedy-The Later Han (29 min)
    • Explore the cultural innovations and the decline of the Han dynasty.

• Silk Roads-In the Footsteps of Nomads (29 min)
  • Investigate the role of pastoral nomads in shaping trade routes.

• Silk Roads-The Envoy Zhang Qian (30 min)
  • Learn about Zhang Qian’s expeditions and their historical significance.

• Silk Roads-Perils of Camels and Caravans (28 min)
  • Understand the challenges faced by merchants on the Silk Roads.

• Silk Roads-Rome and Roads from the West (30 min)
  • Discover Rome’s interactions with Eastern civilizations and trade.

• Silk Roads-The Lost Kushan Empire (30 min)
  • Examine the vital role of the Kushan Empire as a bridge in trade.

• Origins of Buddhism (30 min)
  • Explore the cultural and philosophical development of Buddhism in India.

• The Age of Disunity (30 min)
  • Study the impact of fragmentation and conflict following the Han dynasty.

21. The Great Taizong and the Rise of the Tang (29 min)
    • Analyze the Tang dynasty’s contributions to a unified China.

22. Changan and the Glittering Tang (28 min)
    • Tour the cosmopolitan capital of the Tang dynasty and its cultural achievements.

23. Korea-Choson-Rise of the Yangban (29 min)
    • Explore the foundations and structures of the Choson dynasty in Korea.

• Korea-Choson-The Last Dynasty (29 min)
  • Learn about the challenges faced by the Choson dynasty in the modern age.

25. Medieval Japan-Samurai and Shoguns (29 min)
    • Investigate Japan’s medieval period and the significance of samurai culture.

26. Tokugawa and Meiji Japan (29 min)
    • Understand the transformation of Japan during the Meiji Restoration.

27. The People’s Republic of China (28 min)
    • Explore the establishment of modern China and key political figures.

• Isolation and Cold War Conflicts (29 min)
  • Examine the tensions between the East and West during the Cold War.

29. The Rise of the East Asian Tigers (29 min)
    • Study the economic advancements in East Asia during the late 20th century.

30. The Enduring Ideas of Eastern Civilization (37 min)
    • Reflect on the influence of Eastern civilization in today’s world and future challenges.