Official Systems of Successive Dynasties

Name: Official Systems of Successive Dynasties
ISBN: 9787807119906

李慕南Henan University Press · ChinaApr 2017

3.2

Word count: 120K words
Chapters: 12
ISBN: 9787807119906

Report an error Find this book

Editor's review

Edited by Li Munan and published by Henan University Press, *Official Systems Through the Dynasties* is a thematic work that systematically traces the evolution of China's bureaucratic institutions from the pre-Qin period to the Qing dynasty. Rather than merely listing official titles, it seeks to analyze, within a broad historical framework, the organizational structure, functional authority, and selection mechanisms of the bureaucratic system in different periods, as well as its interaction with the social, political, economic, and cultural conditions of the time. Its value lies in providing a clear and coherent institutional-history perspective that helps readers understand how the core question of "how the state governs" was practiced and transformed over several thousand years.

In terms of organization, the book follows chronological order and discusses each dynasty separately, with a clear structure that makes it easy to consult. It strikes a good balance between professionalism and readability, avoiding overly abstruse textual research while ensuring the accuracy and completeness of basic information. Key concepts in the official system, such as the Three Excellencies and Nine Ministers, the Three Departments and Six Ministries, and the evolution of the civil service examinations, are explained in plain terms. It should be noted, however, that as an overview, the book inevitably has limitations in the depth of its treatment of specific institutions and its incorporation of cutting-edge scholarship; it is better suited as an introductory guide or a foundation for building a knowledge system.

Overall, this is a solid introductory reader in institutional history. Like a carefully drawn map, it cannot show every detail of the micro-topography, but it clearly marks the main mountains and rivers in the evolution of China's bureaucratic system, offering readers reliable routes and coordinates for further exploration of the vast field of historical studies. For readers who wish to systematically understand the underlying logic of traditional Chinese political operation, the book is well worth reading.

Who it's for

A good fit for

Introductory readers interested in ancient Chinese history and political institutions who wish to build a systematic understanding
Students in history and related fields who need a basic reference on the evolution of the official system
Fans of historical literature, film, and television who want to understand the real power and status behind official titles in such works
General readers curious about traditional administrative culture and governance wisdom

Not a good fit for

Professional historians seeking the latest academic research or in-depth specialized studies
Readers expecting a wealth of vivid historical stories or biographical plots

Reading tips

It is recommended to read alongside historical chronologies or general histories, so as to understand institutional change within a broader historical context
While reading, focus on the continuities and changes in the design of official systems across dynasties, and consider the political intentions and social causes behind them
There is no need to memorize all official titles at once; first grasp the core structure and characteristics of each period, then refine your understanding gradually

About the publisher

Henan University Press China · Founded in 1985

Henan University Press operates in the fields of educational publishing and academic publishing, with books covering classical literature, social novels, world classics, folk literature, and foreign literature. Representative works in the catalog include the Chinese classical novels Dream of the Red Chamber, Journey to the West, Romance of the Three Kingdoms, and Water Margin, as well as Chinese and foreign literary classics such as Xiao Hong's The Field of Life and Death, Ernest Hemingway's The Old Man and the Sea, and Jules Verne's Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea. Its author resources include classical writers such as Cao Xueqin, Gao E, Wu Cheng'en, Luo Guanzhong, and Shi Nai'an, along with modern and contemporary authors and translators such as Xiao Hong, Ernest Hemingway, and Zhang Chiheng. Drawing on its university background, the press emphasizes the collation and promotion of classic texts and has built up a certain selection of literary titles. Public information on its specific publishing features and series plans is limited.

编写说明
一、官吏考选制度（1）
一、官吏考选制度（2）
一、官吏考选制度（3）
二、官称制度（1）
二、官称制度（2）
二、官称制度（3）
二、官称制度（4）
二、官称制度（5）
二、官称制度（6）
二、官称制度（7）
后记

FAQ

What is the book's Douban rating?

According to available information, the book has limited attention and rating information on mainstream book communities such as Douban, possibly because of its specialized nature, early publication date, and relatively specific audience. Its value lies more in the systematic and thematic nature of its content.

What is the background of the author, Li Munan?

Mr. Li Munan is a scholar or editor in the field of history and culture who has led or participated in compiling several book series on history and culture. His editorial work focuses on the systematic integration and popularization of knowledge, aiming to provide readers with an accurate and clear framework of historical institutions.

Up to which dynasty does the book's content extend?

According to the book's scope, its content covers the official systems of successive dynasties from the pre-Qin period to the Qing dynasty (before the Opium War), fully presenting the main process by which China's traditional bureaucratic system emerged, developed, matured, and became rigid.

Comments

Find this book

This site is an index: you start “Search all sources” in your browser, and the entries it lists all point to third-party sites; please judge their availability yourself.

About the author

李慕南 Author

Li Munan is a Chinese author with a considerable body of work, though public information about him is limited, and details such as his nationality, birth and death years, and personal background are not clearly recorded. Judging from the 262 titles held in the collection, his writing spans several fields, including popular science, inspirational growth, parenting, and fashion. Representative works include Don't Underestimate This Knowledge, Learn Like a Scientist, Bizarre Plants, How Scientists Learn, Think Like a Scientist, Stories of the Growth of Chinese Education Masters, Classic Education Stories from China and Abroad, and The Greatest Technological Inventions. These titles suggest that he excels at turning scientific knowledge, learning methods, and educational stories into accessible reading for young readers and parents concerned with their children's development. Overall, his works focus on popularizing knowledge and inspiring personal growth, with plain language and themes close to everyday reading needs, forming a practical style within science and education books.