Final answer:
The purpose of the terracotta army is to accompany the first emperor of China, Shi Huangdi, into the afterlife. It is an elaborate mausoleum built to protect the emperor and is a significant archaeological discovery. The correct option is (C)
Step-by-step explanation:
The purpose and significance of the terracotta army in relation to the first emperor of China, Shi Huangdi, is that it is part of an elaborate mausoleum created to accompany him into the afterlife. Option C is the correct answer. The terracotta army consists of thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, fully armed with bronze weaponry and horses. It was built to protect the emperor in the afterlife and is considered a remarkable archaeological find.
Shi Huangdi, who ascended the throne in 221 BCE, had a desire for immortality, which led him to create this colossal project. The terracotta army was placed in massive underground pits near Xi'an and covers an area of about thirty-eight square miles. It is estimated that the army is made up of around 8,000 soldiers.
The significance of the terracotta army lies in its historical and cultural importance. It provides valuable insights into the military prowess and grandeur of the Qin dynasty, as well as the beliefs and practices surrounding death and the afterlife in ancient China.