Everlasting Flower: A History of Korea

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Reaktion Books, 2006 - History - 320 pages
The defiant dictatorship of North Korea and the thriving democracy of South Korea may appear starkly different, but they share a complex and often misunderstood history that is ably recounted in Everlasting Flower.
Keith Pratttraverses the ancient landscapes of the Koreas, from the kingdoms of Old Choson and Wiman Choson to the present-day 38th Parallel division. The book’s engaging narrative details the wars, ruling dynasties, Chinese and Japanese imperialism, and controversial historical events such as the abuses of the Japanese occupation.
Everlasting Flower applies an equally careful eye to religious practices, dress, and food, and augments the narrative with richly illustrated pictorial essays. As the Korean peninsula assumes a prominent role in world affairs, Everlasting Flower offers an invaluable survey of Korean history and culture.

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Contents

Preface
10
Introduction
13
Cultural Patterns in Flux
29
The Building of Confidence
59
The Struggle for Independence
85
The Search for
116
Tradition at Work
153
The Colonial Era
209
Return to Disunity
241
Tradition and Change
264
Sources and Further Reading
308
Acknowledgements
314
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About the author (2006)

Keith Pratt is professor emeritus in the Department of East Asian Studies at Durham University in the United Kingdom. He is the author or coauthor of numerous books and articles on Korea, including Korea: A Historical and Cultural Dictionary.

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