In Search of the First Dynasty

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ID: 321971
2026
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Abstract
Abstract The search for archaeological evidence of the Xia civilisation, recorded in transmitted texts as the first Chinese dynasty, has been a major objective of Chinese archaeology since its inception. The prevailing narrative on the history of Chinese archaeology portrays the search for the Xia as an example of archaeological research co-opted and dominated by the Chinese nation-state-building agenda. This chapter explores the history of this archaeological endeavour against the backdrop of shifting intellectual debates. This research challenges the idea that the 1959 exploration of the Xia Culture by the Institute of Archaeology was planned by Xia Nai and executed by Xu Xusheng as part of the National 12-Year Scientific Development Plan (1956–1967). By comparing Xu’s and Xia’s diaries, along with the recollections of participants in the expedition, it becomes clear that the search for the Xia Culture was primarily spearheaded by Xu Xusheng against the intellectual trends of his time. The archaeological exploration of Xia culture actually emerged from tensions and compromises between scholars affiliated with two academic traditions in the first half of the 20th century: the Institute of History and Philology at Academia Sinica and the Institute of History at the Beiping Academy. Only by understanding the history of this archaeological project will it be possible to design new conceptual frameworks that can accommodate issues of legendary narratives and placemaking.
Reference Key
openalex_W7170044745 Use this key to autocite in the manuscript while using SciMatic Manuscript Manager or Thesis Manager
Authors Min Li
Journal Oxford University Press eBooks
Year 2026
DOI
10.1093/oxfordhb/9780197800324.013.0007
URL
https://doi.org/10.1093/oxfordhb/9780197800324.013.0007
Keywords Keywords not found

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