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Frontiers in Art Research, 2020, 2(9); doi: 10.25236/FAR.2020.020913.

Oracle-Bone Inscriptions and Cultural Memory

Author(s)

Li Anzhu

Corresponding Author:
Li Anzhu
Affiliation(s)

Center for Foreign Literature and Culture of Guangdong University of Foreign Studies, China

Abstract

Oracle-bone inscriptions, as the earliest identifiable Chinese writing system, are a major evidence of Chinese civilization. The Zhenren groups (diviners) headed by the rulers of the Shang Dynasty practiced divination frequently for different reasons, whether important or trivial, so that rich oracle-bone inscriptions were produced. Oracle -bone inscriptions, as a ritual symbol, have played a significant role in strengthening memory of human, communicating with gods and spirits of the dead, ensuring administrative legitimacy and forming the early national cultural identity, so they’re definitely worth exploring.

Keywords

Oracle-bone inscriptions, Cultural memory, Ritual, Symbol

Cite This Paper

Li Anzhu. Oracle-Bone Inscriptions and Cultural Memory. Frontiers in Art Research (2020) Vol. 2 Issue 9: 63-73. https://doi.org/10.25236/FAR.2020.020913.

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