-
1600 BCE
Shang Dynasty
First written records ever written in China. The hieroglyphs later evolved into traditional chinese characters -
213 BCE
Burning of the Books
Emperor Shih Huang Ti of the Qin dynasty ordered all works that appeared to threaten him be burned. This resulted in the need to recreate the classics that were burned in the next dynasty. -
200 BCE
Religious Literature of the Zhou dynasty
Works of philosophy and religion that later became the basis of Chinese religion and beliefs. Taoism and Confucianism literature emerged during this time. -
85 BCE
Shih Chi
Meaning "Historical Records", it contained records of the past 2,000 years. It was the first attempt of history in China and set the history pattern for other dynasties. -
Sep 15, 770
Life of Du Fu
Du Fu (770 A.D) is one of the most prominent realist poets. His poems reveal the harsh realities of war and the poor dying. -
May 7, 1088
The Dream Pool of Essays
ShenKuo writes a book stating all of China;s achievements. These include movable type, the compass and the discovery of the true north. -
Sep 15, 1500
Journey to the West
This book was written about a historical journey about a Buddhist traveling to India. It was written in vernacular, which was odd at time. This tale is known by many Chinese children and often appears in movies and TV -
The beginning of the modern era
In the middle of the Qing dynasty interest in foreign works and literature was high. The Chinese began to translate these works and travel abroad to study and through this their culture started to change.