BY: ROBERT W. BAGLEY

Anyang Writing and the Origin of the Chinese

Writing System

Presentation by:Cathy Rogers

Topics in Reading include:

Discovery of the Anyang writingMaterial used for writingDivination inscriptionsBronze inscriptionsOther inscriptions on several surfacesEvidence and comparative writing systemsOrigin: 3 Hypothesis

Discovery of the Anyang Writing

The earliest Chinese writing dates about 1200 BC.

Anyang – the northernmost city in Henan where the writings were discovered by archeologists.

Wu Ding

Turtle Shells and Bovine Scapulas (cow shoulder bone)

Divination?

Lady Hao

Material Written On

3000 – 5000 CHARACTERS&

WHAT WAS THE PURPOSE OF THEM?

Oracle Inscriptions

Ritual vessels

Monograms

Family crests

Bronze Inscriptions

?

?

Other Inscriptions On Surfaces

Writings found on bone were also trophies, describing military expeditions, andrecord keeping.Stone and jade found in tombs

Quick Overview

3 Types of Script:

Script on bone that was carved Script on bronze that was transferred from clay Script on stone and jade which required a brush

Evidence and Comparative Writing Systems

No dictionary found…Clay tablets were found elsewhere…Function? -Administrative work…Writing System connected several cities…Not constricted by royalty…

Origin: Unknown

3 Hypothesis:

Stimulus Diffusion Clan Signs Sudden Invention of Full Writing

Should we consider context?

Thank you!