The Shape of the Turtle

<p>Many Chinese philosophic concepts derive from an ancient cosmology. This work is the first reconstructions of the mythic thought of the Shang Dynasty (ca. 1700- 1100 B.C.) which laid the foundation for later Chinese patterns of thought. Allan regards the myth cosmology divination sacrificial ritual and art of the Shang as different manifestations of a common religious system and each is examined in turn building up a coherent and consistent picture. Although primarily concerned with the Shang this work also describes the manner in which Shang thought was transformed in the later textual tradition.</p>