Lesson 4: Chinese Society in the Song Dynasty

Lesson Question: What was "modern" about Chinese society in the Song Dynasty?

Lesson Objective: The students will understand the diversity and uniqueness of Chinese society in the Song Dynasty.

http://www.huangshantour.com/english/river.htm

http://afe.easia.columbia.edu/song/

Northern Song Imperial Court:

1.Emperor/Empress (Confucianism)2.Minister of Finance (Economic Revolution)3.Minister of Mechanics and Innovation (Technology)4.Chief of Urban Planning (Cities)5.Foreign Minister (Outside World)

Scenario:The year is 1025 and you have just been crowned emperor/empress. Your hold on power is tenuous since 1) you are young and have never held an important position in the imperial government, 2) have a domineering mother who intends to rule China through you, and 3) have heard whisperings that your dynasty has lost the Mandate of Heaven due to a recent series of earthquakes in the south that have killed many thousands in a couple of hard-hit cities and disrupted manufacturing and trade in the region. Furthermore, embassaries from the Liao and Xixia kingdoms have arrived in your capital to announce a new alliance between the two peoples and demand a significant increase in the annual tribute to both kingdoms or else. You believe that you have six months at the most before these two powers could invade your territory with a joint-army.

Task:

You have stated to your court and your kingdom that as emperor you shall ensure the power of your dynasty, the protection of your people, and the prosperity of your realm.

What in the next six months, if you last that long as emperor/empress, will you do?

The Imperial Program (x 5):

1.Problem addressed.2.Policy (the action).3.Resources available (facts about Song China).4.Intended result.5.Possible problems.

Formative Assessment:

How will your policies ensure the power, protection and prosperity of Song China in six months?