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The Great Wall of China: History and Myth with Dr. Jeremiah Jenne

The Great Wall of China: History and Myth with Dr. Jeremiah Jenne


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Can't make this time? A video recording will be sent to all participants after the seminar.

Perhaps more than any other structure, the Great Wall has become an indelible symbol of China and Chinese civilization. Yet, the history of the Great Wall is often misunderstood and shrouded in mythology, both ancient and modern. Is the Great Wall of China really thousands of years old? Can you see it from space? Is it true there are bodies forever entombed in its stones? Was it ever an effective deterrent against barbarian invasion? Did the Chinese finally get the Mongolians to pay for it? This seminar seeks to answer these questions as we explore in-depth the history of this extraordinary structure.
In this fun, informative, and occasionally irreverent talk, we will discuss the story of the wall, gently dispel a few myths, and talk about the significance of the wall in the history of China. Whether participants have walked the wall already, are planning to someday, or want to learn more about one of the world’s most famous sites, we will cover an array of topics.
Led by Jeremiah Jenne, a regular visitor of the Great Wall for the past 15 years, and an expert in late imperial and modern Chinese history, this conversation will deepen participants understanding of this wonder. Designed to inform curiosity as well as future travels, participants will come away with an increased knowledge of the history of the Great Wall as well as many of the lesser-traveled sections of the wall and the surrounding countryside.

Jeremiah is a writer and historian based in Beijing since 2002. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of California, Davis, and taught Late Imperial and Modern Chinese History for over 15 years. His essays and articles on China have appeared in The Economist, South China Morning Post, The Journal of Asian Studies, Los Angeles Review of Books, and The World of Chinese. His writings can also be found in China in 2008: A Year of Great Significance, The Insider's Guide to Beijing, and the 2015 collection While We're Here: China Stories from a Writer's Colony. Jeremiah is frequently asked to speak and lead workshops on history, culture, and cultural adaptation for students, embassies, companies, and community groups. Along with David Moser, Jeremiah hosts the podcast Barbarians at the Gate.

This conversation is suitable for all ages.

90 minutes, including a 30 minute Q&A.

Customer Reviews

Based on 12 reviews
92%
(11)
8%
(1)
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C
C.F. (Santa Monica, US)
Just terrific!

Guest did not leave comment

S
S.S. (Oxford, US)
THe great Wall of China

I learned many new facts and myths!. I found the talk both informative and entertaining

P
Pamela M (Summerland Key, US)
Great presenter

Jeremiah Jennie offered a fabulous presentation. Well organized and documented. Great visuals. Seamless response to questions during his presentation. My understanding of the Great Wall was enhanced and refined.

P
Priscilla (Richmond, CA)
Enthusiastic, well informed and interesting

Jeremiah is an enthusiastic presenter who gives a well informed and interesting lecture on the history of the Great Wall and its connection to that of China itself.

L
Larry Levine (Monterey, US)
Great visit to the Wall!

Jeremiah has immense knowledge and enthusiasm for China and its history, and did a great job describing the realities and the popular exaggerations concerning the Great Wall. Lots of maps and photos, and plenty of time and attention for answering our questions.

Customer Reviews

Based on 12 reviews
92%
(11)
8%
(1)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
C
C.F. (Santa Monica, US)
Just terrific!

Guest did not leave comment

S
S.S. (Oxford, US)
THe great Wall of China

I learned many new facts and myths!. I found the talk both informative and entertaining

P
Pamela M (Summerland Key, US)
Great presenter

Jeremiah Jennie offered a fabulous presentation. Well organized and documented. Great visuals. Seamless response to questions during his presentation. My understanding of the Great Wall was enhanced and refined.

P
Priscilla (Richmond, CA)
Enthusiastic, well informed and interesting

Jeremiah is an enthusiastic presenter who gives a well informed and interesting lecture on the history of the Great Wall and its connection to that of China itself.

L
Larry Levine (Monterey, US)
Great visit to the Wall!

Jeremiah has immense knowledge and enthusiasm for China and its history, and did a great job describing the realities and the popular exaggerations concerning the Great Wall. Lots of maps and photos, and plenty of time and attention for answering our questions.