Overview
This lecture covers the history, architecture, and significance of the Forbidden City in Beijing, the former imperial palace of China, detailing its organization, symbolism, and role from the Ming dynasty to the present.
Introduction to the Forbidden City
- The Forbidden City is a large walled palace complex in central Beijing, China, built in 1420.
- It measures 961 meters long and 753 meters wide, containing over 90 palace compounds and 98 buildings, surrounded by a wide moat.
- Served as the political and ritual center of China for over 500 years, housing 24 emperors from the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Construction and Historical Context
- Construction began under Emperor Zhu Di (Chengzu) after a coup, moving the capital from Nanjing to Beijing.
- The layout follows Confucian ideals and the cosmic order, dictating social roles and ritual use.
- Building designs followed strict standards set by the eleventh-century "Yingzao fashi" architecture manual.
Layout and Social Organization
- The Forbidden City is divided into the outer (public/state) court in the south and the inner (private/domestic) court in the north.
- The outer court contains major halls like the Hall of Supreme Harmony and was reserved for state affairs managed mainly by men.
- The inner court is for the imperial family, with crucial palaces on the central axis: Palace of Heavenly Purity (emperor), Palace of Earthly Tranquility (empress), and the Hall of Celestial and Terrestrial Union (ceremonies).
Changes and Symbolism
- Emperors lived in different residences over time; after the 18th century, most resided in the Hall of Mental Cultivation.
- Residences for imperial consorts were arranged symmetrically to represent the earth and proper feminine roles, but Empress Dowager Cixi altered this symbolism with palace renovations.
- The sides of the inner court also include temples and residences for retired rulers, reflecting religious and generational aspects.
The Forbidden City Today
- Became the Palace Museum in 1925 after the last emperor's expulsion.
- Ongoing restoration and adaptation maintain the site as both a historical landmark and a major public museum.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Forbidden City — The former Chinese imperial palace complex in Beijing.
- Outer court — Southern, public area for state affairs.
- Inner court — Northern, private area for the imperial family.
- Yingzao fashi — Ancient Chinese architectural manual dictating building standards.
- Confucian order — System of social hierarchy and ritual rooted in Confucian philosophy.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review plans and photographs of the Forbidden City’s layout.
- Read about the Ming and Qing dynasties’ role in Chinese history.
- Study the influence of Confucianism on Chinese architecture.