The Master of Demon Gorge: A Chinese History Podcast

Regarding the great Yuan Dynasty playwright and his most famous play.Support the show

Regarding the historian of institutions Du You and his grandson, the poet Du Mu.Support the show

The legend of "a dead cat for a prince" and the true story of the career of Empress Dowager Liu of the Song Dynasty.Support the show

On the great Song Dynasty philosopher who redefined Confucian thought.Support the show

Regarding the major Qing Dynasty historian Zhang Xuecheng (1738-1801).Support the show

Explore the provocative ideas of Zhuangzi as they challenge Confucian ideals through the lens of a notorious criminal. Delve into the life of Liu Xiaohui and the rich tapestry of historical figures in ancient China. Witness the intense clash between Confucius and the general Robert Zhi, where moral philosophy collides with raw power. Experience a fictional dialogue that scrutinizes the depths of Confucian morality, revealing that even those with questionable ethics possess their own moral reasoning.

Huang Zongxi, a pivotal figure in Chinese democratic thought, discusses his esteemed work, 'Waiting for Dawn'. He critiques despotism and advocates for a Confucian-based political reform strategy. The conversation unveils his remarkable journey through the Ming to Qing Dynasty transition, highlighting his intellectual defiance and contributions across multiple disciplines. Furthermore, Huang's insights foster a dialogue between traditional Chinese values and Western democratic philosophies, emphasizing the essential role of people's authority in governance.

Until the advent of modern scholarship, the earliest definitive date in the chronology of Chinese history was 841 B.C. What happened that year that so marked the calendar?Support the show

Zhang Zhongjing, a renowned physician of the Han Dynasty, shares fascinating insights into his life and groundbreaking contributions to ancient Chinese medicine. He discusses his early inspirations and determined path in medicine, underscoring his fight against the deadly Shanghan disease. Zhang also highlights the rise of fraudulent practitioners during epidemics, which propelled him to write pivotal medical texts. His enduring legacy is reflected in the continued relevance of his writings in today's traditional practices.

Li Jie was an influential architect and scholar from the Song Dynasty who authored 'Ying Zhao Fa Shi', a seminal work that standardized architectural practices. In this discussion, he sheds light on his journey from an unsung hero to a key figure in Chinese architecture. The conversation highlights his role as governor of Guojo and the challenges he faced in gaining recognition for his contributions. Through his narrative, listeners gain insight into the evolution of medieval architecture and the importance of preserving historical knowledge.