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A lighthearted representation of some of China's fantasies and superstitions.
This is a new release of the original 1942 edition.
Do you touch wood for luck, or avoid hotel rooms on floor thirteen? Would you cross the path of a black cat, or step under a ladder? Is breaking a mirror just an expensive waste of glass, or something rather more sinister? Despite the dominance of science in today's world, superstitious beliefs - both traditional and new - remain surprisingly popular. A recent survey of adults in the United States found that 33 percent believed that finding a penny was good luck, and 23 percent believed that the number seven was lucky. Where did these superstitions come from, and why do they persist today? This Very Short Introduction explores the nature and surprising history of superstition from antiquity to the present. For two millennia, superstition was a label derisively applied to foreign religions and unacceptable religious practices, and its primary purpose was used to separate groups and assert religious and social authority. After the Enlightenment, the superstition label was still used to define groups, but the new dividing line was between reason and unreason. Today, despite our apparent sophistication and technological advances, superstitious belief and behaviour remain widespread, and highly educated people are not immune. Stuart Vyse takes an exciting look at the varieties of popular superstitious beliefs today and the psychological reasons behind their continued existence, as well as the likely future course of superstition in our increasingly connected world. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.
This fourth revised edition of Chinese Symbolism and Art Motifs, first published in Shanghai in 1941, features an introduction by Dr. Terence Barrow, has been completely reset and now uses the Pinyin pronunciation of Chinese names and words. The Eight Immortals, the five elements, the dragon and the phoenix, yin and yang—representations of these important cultural symbols are pervasive in Chinese literature, art and architecture. Without an understanding of their significance, much Chinese history, folklore and culture can't be fully appreciated. In this comprehensive handbook, C.A.S. Williams offers concise explanations—and over 400 illustrations—of these essential symbols and motifs. Arranged alphabetically for easy access, the book not only explains essential cultural symbols, accompanied by their Chinese characters, but also contains many articles on Chinese beliefs, customs, arts and crafts, food, agriculture, and medicine. This book has become a standard reference volume for students of China and Chinese culture. For those who are visiting China, Chinese Symbolism and Art Motifs is an indispensable guide to the Middle Kingdom's artistic and architectural wonders. For the general reader, it is a valuable compendium of fascinating sinological lore.
Are you tired of being surrounded by Chinese superstitions that seem to have no basis in logic or fact? Do you want to understand the origins and evolution of these beliefs without being drowned in complex jargon? If you've ever asked yourself why certain numbers are considered lucky in Chinese culture, or what's the real story behind Feng Shui, or whether your zodiac sign actually has any influence on your life, this book is for you. "Chinese Superstitions: A Rational Examination" offers an unapologetic, rational, and logical exploration of Chinese superstitions. This book will help you: - Understand the historical context and evolution of Chinese superstitions. - Discover the role of folklore in shaping these beliefs. - Learn about numerology in Chinese culture. - Evaluate Feng Shui: Is it an ancient science or just superstition? - Investigate the truth behind zodiac signs in Chinese culture. - Explore the connection between traditional Chinese medicine and superstition. - Understand the impact of superstitions on the Chinese economy. - Examine the role of superstitions in everyday life and education in China. - Relate superstitions to health in China. - Discover common Chinese superstitions and learn how to debunk them. If you want to understand Chinese superstitions without being drowned in complex language or unnecessary jargon, then this book is for you. "Chinese Superstitions: A Rational Examination" is your guide to understanding the world of Chinese superstitions in a rational, logical manner. Order your copy today and start your journey into the fascinating world of Chinese beliefs.
This unique and authoritative guide describes more than 400 important Chinese symbols, explaining their esoteric meanings and connections. Their use and development in Chinese literature and in Chinese customs and attitudes to life are traced lucidly and precisely. `An ideal reference book to help one learn and explore further, while simultaneously giving greater insight into many other aspects of Chinese life ... the most authoritative guide to Chinese symbolism available to the general reader today ... a well-researched, informative and entertaining guide to the treasure trove of Chinese symbols.' - South China Morning Post
Discover a fascinating world of romantic symbols beyond the familiar wine, roses, and candlelight. From pearls to pomegranates, tulips to truffles, vodka to Venus, Magical Symbols of Love & Romance explores the fascinating history of love iconography and reveals how to use the powerful archetypal energy of symbols to add romance, passion, or lasting love to your life. Learn the specific meaning of love symbols from a variety of sublime sources, including: foods, flowers, perfumes, gemstones, astrology, animals, tarot imagery, and color. This captivating guide also features true, modern-day success stories that illustrate how others have used love symbols to attract a lover, resolve relationship issues, or solicit a marriage proposal.