Culture and Customs of Taiwan (Culture & Customs of Asia Series) Book

Taiwanese society is in the midst of an immense, exciting effort to define itself, seeking to erect a contemporary identity upon the foundation of a highly distinctive history. This book provides a thorough overview of Taiwanese cultural life. The introduction familiarizes students and interested readers with the island's key geographical and demographic features, and provides a chronological summary of Taiwanese history. In the following seven chapters, readers gain insight into Taiwanese customs and culture through its thought and religion; kinship and marriage systems; literature and art; architecture; festivals and leisure activities; music and dance; cuisine and fashion. The final chapter presents the most recent information regarding children and education, and explores the importance of the Taiwanese family in the context of meaningful relationships amongst acquaintances, friends, and institutions that make up the social universe of the Taiwanese.Read More