Abstract
In this paper the author attempts to interpret traditional, epigraphic and archaeological sources of the history of the late Shang state as evidence of the practice of ritual cannibalism. One of the religious concentrations of the Late Shang culture was large-scale regular human sacrifices regulated by the state. The ritual consumption of human flesh was a part of these sacrifices ensuring continuous communication of people with sacred forces. The author believes that the anthropophagic rituals of the Shang kings were a way of acquiring magical power which consisted in sacrificial food. Satisfying the gastronomic needs of their royal ancestors was employed by the Shang kings to increase their own sacred authority and power allowing them to maintain social stability and order in the state and thereby act as a guarantor of public well-being.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
