The Shocking Cultural Clash: What Made the Chinese View European Practices as Barbaric?

The Shocking Cultural Clash: What Made the Chinese View European Practices as Barbaric?

Europe has a rich history that spans hundreds of years, and with it comes a wealth of cultural practices that have been known to shock those unfamiliar with them. China was no exception to this, and European practices were seen as nothing short of barbaric by the Chinese people. In this article, we’re going to explore some of the key reasons for this clash of cultures and what it meant for both sides.

Introduction

To truly understand why the Chinese viewed European practices as barbaric, we have to look at the historical context in which the clash occurred. In the 19th century, China was in a state of turmoil, with ongoing internal conflicts and a weakened central government. This made it an easy target for European nations, who were looking to expand their empires and gain access to China’s vast resources.

One of the key ways European nations did this was through the imposition of unequal treaties, which forced China to open up its ports to European trade and grant certain privileges to European nations. As a result of this, European practices began to enter China and clash with traditional Chinese culture.

Body

So, what were some of the European practices that the Chinese viewed as barbaric? One of the most notable was the custom of foot binding, which was seen by many Chinese people as a form of torture and mutilation. European missionaries and diplomats were often vocal in their opposition to this practice, adding further tension to the cultural divide.

Another European practice that clashed with Chinese culture was the consumption of meat. While meat was a staple in European diets, it was not as common in China, where vegetarianism was a popular choice. The Chinese saw the killing and eating of animals as cruel and disrespectful, and the concept of animal welfare was a foreign one to many Europeans.

Furthermore, European clothing and fashion were seen as immodest and indecent by many Chinese people. European women’s clothing in particular, with its low-cut necklines and tight-fitting corsets, was seen as scandalous and inappropriate. This clashed with the traditional Chinese values of modesty and decorum.

All of these factors contributed to a sense of mistrust and hostility between the two cultures. However, it’s important to note that not all Chinese people viewed European practices negatively. Some were fascinated by the new ideas and technologies that European nations brought with them, and sought to adopt them into their own lives.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the clash of cultures between China and Europe in the 19th century was a complex and multifaceted issue. European practices were viewed as barbaric by the Chinese people, due in part to the historical context in which they were introduced and also to the clash of traditional values between the two cultures.

The legacy of this clash can still be felt today, as China and Europe continue to negotiate their cultural differences and work towards greater understanding. By examining the historical context and underlying social dynamics, we can learn valuable lessons about how cultural conflicts arise and how they can be resolved.

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