Campany's Book Presents New View of Medieval Chinese Ascetics
Campany argues that many xian were not socially isolated at all, but were much sought after for their powers to heal the sick, foresee the future, and narrate their exotic experiences. He takes a close look at their narratives and relations with non-xian, including family members and officials, all the while emphasizing the importance of these individuals within their society. Critics in the field say Making Transcendents is "original and provocative" in its depiction of the quest for transcendence as a social phenomenon in early medieval China. The book offers a paradigm for understanding the roles of holy persons in other society, as well.Read what critics are saying about this book.
Posted Thursday, March 12, 2009