Christina Yu
PhD Candidate
Department of Art History
University of Chicago
“Elegant Gathering: Late Yuan Literati Culture”
Friday, May 28, 4-6 pm
CWAC 156
Abstract
This presentation focuses on a social activity called “elegant gathering” (yaji), where scholars gathered in a garden to enjoy food and wine, compose poems, create paintings, and appreciate antiques. Accompanied by those of similar educational backgrounds, literary and artistic interests, and experiences of survival at a turbulent time, participating scholars found sympathy and comfort in each other’s company. Using their skills in poetry, calligraphy, and painting, late Yuan scholars were able to build a community defined by it cultural prestige. This sense of belonging is especially meaningful for late Yuan literati who felt being alienated in the foreign ruled Mongol empire and insecure by the threat of wars. Through case studies, I argue the existence of the community helped the scholars to construct an identity essential to their dignity and survival.
