SOURCE3 A modern artist’s impression of the court of Kublai Khan
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A. Foreign dignitaries were welcome at the court of Kublai Khan. Such visits were an opportunity to increase trade between the East and the West. B. Under the rule of Kublai Khan, Tibetan Buddhism thrived and became one of the official religions of the Yuan dynasty. C. Women who were close to Kublai Khan were encouraged to engage in political discussions during his rule. His mother and wife were particularly influential. D. Confucianists, some of whom had advised the Song, were invited to the khan’s court. Xu Heng was a well- respected Confucianist and educator, and was appointed the first leader of the dynasty’s National Academy in1271. E. The court was filled with poets, artists and calligraphers, whose work was displayed for all to see. Influential poets included Zhang Yanghao, who challenged government policies, and Huang Gongwang, who was one of the four great painters of the Yuan dynasty. After retiring to the mountains, he spent three years painting one scroll. F. Diet was of great importance. It was believed many diseases could be cured or prevented through diet alone. Assorted foods that may have been eaten included duck, chicken, fish, rice and vegetables. G. In the thirteenth century, the court of Kublai Khan regularly saw high-level meetings between the Mongolian ruling class and dignitaries from around the world. Through these meetings, ideas flowed into China, while tales of the now-famous emperor spread all over the world. H. During the Yuan dynasty, there were many debates between Daoists and Buddhists at the khan’s court. After losing a debate in 1281, Kublai Khan ordered many Daoist texts to be burned.
SkillBuilder discussion Using historical sources 1. List the elements in the picture that suggest that Kublai Khan’s court was a place of cultural and intellectual exchange. 2. How does the artist convey the vibrancy and diversity of the court through colour and composition? 3. Can you identify any specific figures or symbols in the picture that might represent important aspects of life at Kublai Khan’s court?
Jacaranda Humanities Alive 8 Victorian Curriculum Third Edition
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