The Significance of the Terracotta Army
A Unique Form of Ancient Funerary Art
The Terracotta Army stands as a testament to the grandeur and beliefs of ancient Chinese civilization. More than just statues, these figures represent a distinct category of funerary art: substitutes for human sacrifice. To understand their significance, we must first delve into the ancient practice they replaced.
The Cruel Tradition of Human Sacrifice
In ancient China, particularly during the Shang and Zhou dynasties, human sacrifice was a common ritual. Rulers, considered semi-divine beings, were often buried with their servants, concubines, and even officials. This practice, known as "殉葬" (xunzang), stemmed from the belief that the deceased needed companions and attendants in the afterlife.
Slaves, seen as mere possessions, were considered an extension of their masters in life and death. Their lives held no intrinsic value beyond their service to their owner, making them tragic victims of this gruesome tradition.
The Emergence of "俑" (Yong) - Effigies for the Afterlife
As society progressed, the use of human sacrifice gradually declined, replaced by symbolic substitutes known as "俑" (yong). These effigies, often crafted from wood, pottery, or bronze, served as stand-ins for living sacrifices. They provided a more humane alternative while still adhering to the belief in providing for the deceased in the afterlife.
The Terracotta Army: A Grand Army for Eternity
The Terracotta Army, commissioned by Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China, embodies this evolution of burial practices. Instead of burying thousands of living soldiers with him, Emperor Qin Shi Huang opted for a vast army of clay warriors.
This army, meticulously crafted with unique features and weaponry, served a symbolic purpose:
- Protection in the Afterlife: The soldiers were meant to guard the emperor's tomb and ensure his safety in the afterlife.
- Display of Power: The sheer scale and detail of the army served as a powerful statement of the emperor's might and authority, even in death.
- Continuity of Rule: The army represented the emperor's desire for his reign to continue even after his passing, projecting an image of eternal dominance.
The Significance Today
The Terracotta Army provides invaluable insight into the beliefs, military practices, and artistry of ancient China. It stands as a reminder of a time when life and death were viewed through a vastly different lens, and the afterlife held paramount importance.
Q&A
Q: Why was the Terracotta Army created?
A: The Terracotta Army was created to serve as a symbolic army for the first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang, in the afterlife. It was intended to protect him, display his power, and ensure the continuity of his rule.
Q: What does the Terracotta Army tell us about ancient Chinese beliefs?
A: The Terracotta Army reveals the ancient Chinese belief in an afterlife where the deceased continued to need protection, provisions, and even armies. It also reflects the hierarchical structure of their society, where rulers held immense power and were revered even in death.
Q: What is the significance of the individual features of the Terracotta Warriors?
A: Each Terracotta Warrior was meticulously crafted with unique facial features, hairstyles, armor, and weaponry. This individuality suggests that the artisans aimed to create a realistic portrayal of a diverse army, potentially reflecting the actual soldiers who served under Emperor Qin Shi Huang.