Southeast AsianChina Interactions

AY2023/2024 Semester 2

In the course Southeast Asian-China Interaction, you will examine Chinese texts, indigenous writings that include non-contemporary works which discuss the early historical connections of the Southeast Asian kingdoms with China and archaeological data in the form of Chinese artifacts found on both land sites and shipwrecks. This course will provide an understanding on long period of interactions between Southeast Asia and China. For instance, historical documents such as historical annals were examined as archaeological evidences in early Chinese dynasties from the Han to early Song dynasty period, the various connections between the different Chinese dynasties and the Southeast Asian kingdoms will portray the vibrancy of the trade relations then. You will also be provided with archaeological evidences from sites that facilitates them to understand the importance of archaeological sites as a primary source of data gathering. You will also learn the trade relations between Southeast Asia and China through artefacts such as Chinese ceramics and coins. By examining and analyzing the data from the artefacts, you are able to have a better understanding on the cultural and social aspects in early China and Southeast Asia societies.