Question

What is the function of the funeral banner of Lady Dai in the Han Dynasty, China?

1) To guide the soul in the underworld
2) To depict the importance of ancestors
3) To represent the values of Confucianism and Daoism
4) To showcase the wealth and prestige of Lady Dai

Answer 1

The funeral banner of Lady Dai primarily served to guide her soul in the underworld, reflecting the Han Dynasty's practices of honoring the dead with elaborate burials that upheld Confucian values and demonstrated wealth and power.The correct answer is option A.

Step-by-step explanation:

The function of the funeral banner of Lady Dai in the Han Dynasty of China was multifaceted. Primarily, it served as a guide for the soul in the underworld, ensuring safe passage and spiritual protection.

The tradition of burying elaborate goods with the deceased, such as those found in the tombs of Lady Fu Hao and Marquis Yi of Zeng State, reflects the belief in an afterlife where these items were thought to be necessary.

Moreover, these goods and the funeral rites themselves were a display of wealth and power, indicating the status of the individual and affirming social hierarchy and familial piety within the context of Confucian ideals.

Additionally, such practices could be seen as honoring ancestors and aligning with the values of Confucianism and Daoism, which were prevalent in Han society.

Looking at comparable burial practices highlighted in the various texts, one can conclude that while these ceremonies had multiple purposes, guiding the soul was a primary function, entwined with cultural and religious beliefs of the time. The correct answer is option A.