Comparative Analysis Of Monarchies: The Han Dynasty And Roman Republic
The Han Dynasty and Roman Republic are comparable monarchies because of many similar aspects including the government, gender inequalities, religion and belief systems.
The Han dynasty earned its reputation as a ‘Golden Age’ because of its strong social systems and successful citizenship. “During his 54-year reign, Emperor Wu expanded the borders of China to the north of Vietnam in the south, to the Korean Peninsula in the east, and to eastern Kazakhstan in the west. There was flourishing in the arts and culture as well during the reign of Emperor Wu”. The 7th ruler, Emperor Wu, lead the Han dynasties most prosperous period. His reign brought advancements in culture through expansions into new regions of China. As the absorbed territories of China increased the cherished resources, such as horses and jade, these riches became commonplace within the dynasty. As the transition of the Qin to Han dynasty began, legalism philosophies were replaced by Confucianism. This change in philosophy was important because Confucianism values had a positive impact on the society as a whole. The class and gender systems continued throughout the two dynasties eventually becoming accepted because people were prosperous and satisfied within each class. The leadership within the Han dynasty placed a higher value on education than previous regimes.
The Roman Republic overtook the monarchy and shifted power from an individual to the citizenship. During this period of prosperity, Rome expanded its borders overpowering smaller city-states. The result of these acquisitions fueled economic and cultural growth. In Roman society, the class structure was a driving force that kept the sustainability of the government. “As Rome grew, the beliefs of those who were conquered were slowly integrated into Roman culture and religion. Many Greek gods and rituals became a part of Roman religion, and through study of Greek art, literature and mythology, many Greek gods came to be identified with Roman gods”. The Romans believed in many Gods who were involved in all aspects of every citizens life. This commonality between the people was an important component of their society.
There were similarities and subtle distinctions between the two forms of government. The Roman society was more democratic as it was ruled by two people so no one person would have complete authority. The Han dynasty had a single emperor who controlled the operation of society. Both systems worked well for their citizenship despite this very apparent difference in power structure. The Han dynasty was based on the teachings of Confucious that emphasised the virtuous society. The Romans belief in gods was inherent to their social network and this community resulted in a basic level of satisfaction among the classes. Men had primary power in both societies and women were not afforded the same rights. When reviewing and studying each society individually, both have progressive cultures where the citizens lifestyle was not common in their respectives regions of the world. The societies of the Han and Roman people evolved as a result of displeasure with the former government and developed in a way that proved prosperous to their societies.
