As the second volume of a three-volume work on children in the Qin and Han dynasties, Children in the Qin and Han Dynasties II examines the diverse experiences and social conditions of children. The study takes three innovative approaches: it pioneers a child-centred perspective that challenges traditional adult-centred historical narratives, combines classical texts with archaeological evidence, and employs a comprehensive interdisciplinary methodology. The volume examines a range of social groups, from child prodigies celebrated for their intellect, to child labourers in agriculture and domestic service, to children abducted or sold into servitude. It also examines the lives of upper-class children, including their education, upbringing and involvement in political affairs. Through these diverse perspectives, the volume offers a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities faced by children of different social classes in the Qin and Han dynasties, illuminating the complexities of childhood in ancient China. This important work will be an invaluable resource for scholars and students of Qin and Han history, Chinese cultural history, social history and childhood studies.
