THE BOOK OF SONGS - A SUPPLEMENTARY SOURCE FOR THE STUDY OF ANCIENT CHINESE HISTORY

Abstract

The Book of Songs (Shijing), the earliest extant anthology of Chinese poetry, has long been examined primarily through a literary lens, emphasizing its poetic artistry and the cultural spirit of its time. However, its significance extends beyond literary value. The Book of Songs also functions as a historical document that vividly mirrors the political, social, and cultural landscape of early Chinese civilization. It provides valuable insights that complement official historiography, enhancing the credibility of ancient Chinese historical narratives. Employing an interdisciplinary methodology that integrates historical and logical analysis, this study explores how the poems within the Book of Songs reconstruct key historical contexts—such as the formation and consolidation of Zhou dynasty power, the relationship between the Son of Heaven and the feudal lords, and the profound societal shifts characteristic of a decentralized feudal order. These include depictions of warfare, famine, and popular discontent. Through this approach, the study seeks to elucidate the historical value of the Book of Songs and its relevance as a critical source for understanding Chinese history during the Western Zhou and the Spring and Autumn–Warring States periods.