I bought this book to learn more about China's ancient capitals. What I discovered, however, is an absolutely delightful book on the history of China (and its capital cities) as chronicled through the lives of its most important emperors. The first chaper on "The Cosmology of the Chinese Capital" is a fascinating overview of the Chinese world view that links astronomy, religion and geography with Chinese, Indian, Khmer and other Asian orientations--one of the best introductions to the subject I've read. The author then chapter by chapter, follows the lives of the various emperors who founded, moved or destroyed cities and courts and populations in their search for the ideal capital city, safety, riches, military advantage, or divine approval. This history comes alive with anecdotes, stories and details that are beautifully woven together and makes the text a real page-turner. Together with Ann Paludan's excellent book "Chronicles of the Chinese Emperors", which because of its rich illustrations and pictures is the perfect companion to Cotterell's narrative, you have two of the best general overviews of Chinese history to be found. Wonderful book, and one I'll buy and give to many friends to introduce them to the captivating subject of classical Chinese history. ( )

Cotterill gives a summarised history of Chinese Dynasties by describing each dynasty, its capital, and the architectural, artistic, legal and other achievements of the prominent rulers of that dynasty. Its a simple method and very effective. There are many small treasures to be enjoyed here. I particularly liked the image of Kublai Khan camped on the plains waiting for his capital to be built. I was also surprised to learn for the first time of the large number of dynasties that are not Han Chinese but were Turkish, Hunnish, Mongol etc. Fascinating stuff ( )

Read 2017. ( )