Comparative Analysis of China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam

These flashcards summarize key concepts from the lecture notes on the historical and cultural relationships between China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam.

What prevented the Korean civil service examination from being truly merit-based?

It was not open to peasants.

How did Vietnam's relationship with China differ from that of Korea?

Vietnam had a more adversarial relationship, involving violent rebellions against Chinese influence.

What practice restricted women's mobility and social participation in Song Dynasty China?

Foot binding.

What development in the Song era greatly impacted literature and technology?

The development of paper and woodblock printing.

What is Neo-Confucianism?

A syncretic system combining rational thought with Daoism and Buddhism, emphasizing ethics.

What significant cultural impact did Prince Shotoku Taishi have on Japan?

He promoted Buddhism and Confucianism alongside Shinto religion.

What was unique about the social structure of Japanese feudalism compared to European feudalism?

The daimyo enjoyed more power than the nobility in Europe.

What was the code of conduct for samurai in Japan called, and what did it emphasize?

Bushido; it emphasized loyalty, honor, and martial arts.

How did Korea's aristocracy differ from that of China?

The landed aristocracy were more powerful in Korea than in China.

What major change occurred in Korean writing in the 15th century?

Korea developed its own writing system.