Study On The Chariot Etiquette System In Zhou Dynasty

Chariot etiquette system,a system that clearly define how to use the chariot on different classes and occasions.Chariot grade difference manifest the hierachical system in the Zhou Dynasty.The chariot is various from different status.Generally speaking,the higher the status,the more luxurious the chariot,which means more types and bigger amount of the chariot.This paper mainly explores the following issues: Firstly,taking chariot fittings as the research object,using documents and unearthed material,the paper studies on the etiquette system that reflected in the use of chariot fittings.Secondly,with the “five rites”(auspicious,unauspicious,guest,military and fine)as the entry point,analyses the chariot etiquette system,which indicates the chariot symbolizes the status.The most obvious feature of the etiquette system is to stress the hierarchy.Thirdly,based on the research of various chariots and chariots fittings of different classes,it already became the symbol of status-under the strict etiquette system,people in different positions must use different chariots according to the occasion.Finally,the etiquette system has taken an important role from daily life to military in Zhou Dynasty.The etiquette system of chariot developed the thought of “respect the respected”,in the Zhou Dynasty to the extreme.The chariot was the most important transportation tool and weapon of war,it played a vital role in no matter national economy or military construction.The chariot was used both for etiquette and practicality,in the times of war,the practicality was emphasized,therefore,it was the firmness,rather than the requirement of pure color for the etiquette that was valued,In normal times,there were strict rules of etiquette for the chariot,the level of the etiquette system of chariot showed a august momentum,it was more vivid to manifest the momentum through the chariot,a external form of expression,This way played an important role in maintaining the thought of “respect the respected” in Zhou Dynasty.