The Voyages of Zheng He in Ming China

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Questions and Answers

According to Matteo Ricci, why were the Chinese puzzled when shown European maps of the world?

  • Because the Chinese believed that China was not included in the maps
  • Because the Chinese believed that China was situated in the center of the world
  • Because the Chinese believed that China was situated in the middle of a flat plain
  • Because the Chinese believed that China was situated at the extreme eastern border of the world (correct)

How did the Chinese view the heavens?

  • As spherical and China at the center (correct)
  • As flat and China at the center
  • As flat and China at the extreme eastern border
  • As spherical and China at the extreme eastern border

Which of the following best describes Matteo Ricci?

  • A Jesuit missionary to China (correct)
  • A famous Chinese explorer
  • A European cartographer
  • A historian of Ming China

What did Matteo Ricci do to address the Chinese belief that China was at the center of the world?

<p>He created a map that placed China at the center (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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Study Notes

European Maps and Chinese Perception

  • Chinese were puzzled by European maps because they depicted a world where China was not at the center, conflicting with their worldview.
  • The Chinese traditionally viewed their country as the focal point of the universe, a belief deeply rooted in their cultural and philosophical upbringing.

Chinese Cosmology

  • Chinese perspective of the heavens often included the concept of an ordered universe, where the Earth and sky were interconnected and represented in their own cosmology.
  • This belief led to a geographical and philosophical perception that affirmed China's superiority and centrality.

Matteo Ricci's Description

  • Matteo Ricci was a Jesuit missionary recognized for his efforts in cultural exchange between Europe and China.
  • He was characterized by his deep understanding of Chinese culture and language, as well as his proficiency in presenting Western ideas in a manner relatable to the Chinese.

Addressing Chinese Centrality

  • Ricci sought to address the Chinese belief in their geographical centrality by providing new world maps that challenged existing notions.
  • He emphasized the concept of a larger world, utilizing maps and celestial globes, which gradually introduced the Chinese to a more global perspective, recognizing other countries and continents beyond China.

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