From Dowries to Dragon Boats: The Cultural Significance of Gifts in Ancient China
The semiotic study of gifts takes a look at just how gifts, as signs, communicate significances. In ancient China, the interplay between “li” (symbolic definition) and “wu” (useful meaning) was crucial in comprehending the semiotic value of presents. Routine gifts were linked with ceremonies, religious ceremonies, and nationwide occasions, while non-ritual presents pertained to day-to-day life and personal relationships.
Presents in ancient China were not just material objects however were symbolic representations of “li”. The semiotic research of gifts analyzes how gifts, as indications, convey definitions. In old China, the interplay between “li” (symbolic definition) and “wu” (functional significance) was important in comprehending the semiotic significance of gifts. Presents in ancient China were classified right into ritual and non-ritual kinds. Routine presents were linked with events, religious ceremonies, and national events, while non-ritual presents related to day-to-day life and individual relationships.
