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Hospitality in Tang Dynasty China (618 – 907)

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Thesis embargoed until 18th November 2027(1.83 MB)

Date

2024

Authors

Supervisor

Mooney, Shelagh
Liu, Claire
McIntosh, Alison

Item type

Thesis

Degree name

Doctor of Philosophy

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Publisher

Auckland University of Technology

Abstract

Hospitality has played a significant role throughout human history, yet there is a lack of interest and understanding of its history in both academic and industrial spheres. This phenomenon is particularly intriguing considering that hospitality has become a crucial economic pillar in many countries, while the fundamental values of opening a door and welcoming guests, inherited from our ancestors, seem to be forgotten. In China, this phenomenon is especially thought-provoking. Although the hospitality industry in contemporary China has adopted Western models and management experiences, it has overlooked the rich historical knowledge of hospitality practices deeply rooted in its own culture. To fill this knowledge gap, this study explored the phenomenon of hospitality during the Tang dynasty in Chinese history, uncovering historical facts to remind people of the profound role historical reflection plays in the development of hospitality and human society. This research focused on the Golden Age of Chinese history: the Tang dynasty (618 – 907). The Tang dynasty was characterised by political stability, economic prosperity, and a flourishing culture. It established a relatively enlightened political system, implemented the imperial examination system, and facilitated economic prosperity through thriving trade and a robust infrastructure. Culturally, the Tang dynasty witnessed the emergence of many outstanding literary figures and painters, leaving behind a rich cultural legacy. Moreover, the Tang dynasty's openness and inclusiveness facilitated extensive exchanges with neighbouring countries and regions, contributing to the integration of Eastern and Western civilisations and profoundly influenced global politics and culture. In the Tang dynasty, hospitality emerged as an integral part of people's lives and a vibrant and colourful aspect. Exploring hospitality in such a socio- cultural context facilitates observations of a mature form of hospitality in Chinese history, providing a foundation for further research in the field. To closely observe hospitality in the lives of Individuals in the Tang dynasty, this study relied on the analysis of Tang Dynasty notes. The Tang Dynasty notes, typically recorded by individuals, contain personal observations, experiences, and thoughts, with folklore and anecdotes collected from Tang society, covering various aspects of politics, society, culture, and customs. Through a thematic analysis within the Interpretivism research paradigm, this study systematically explored Tang Dynasty notes to understand the Individuals in the Tang dynasty's hospitality activities. The study revealed widespread participation in hospitality activities across various social strata in the Tang dynasty. Participants dynamically constructed the roles of hosts and guests based on their various social identities, motivations, and purposes. Hospitality activities in the Tang dynasty exceeded stereotypical impressions, serving not only basic functions such as providing food, accommodation, and beverages but also fulfilling experiential and social functions. Consequently, hospitality became a vital avenue for the production, distribution, consumption, and reproduction of social resources and interpersonal relationships in Tang dynasty society. Beyond its diverse content, hospitality in the Tang dynasty embodied a spirit of mutual existence, co- construction, and co-enjoyment between hosts and guests, with a deeper focus on the well-being of both parties and the overall harmony of society. Exploring hospitality in the Tang dynasty not only prompts reflection on contemporary hospitality practices but also underscores the critical role of hospitality in fostering interpersonal interactions and social harmony.

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http://hdl.handle.net/10292/18341

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Doctoral Theses