In Search of “Ancient” and “Medieval” Southeast Asia

Abstract

Iwanami History's most remarkable contribution to Southeast Asian historiography is the new framework of periodization. Instead of using a single index, it tries to see change in broader terms. As a key concept it presents “historical circles” or “historical spheres, ” which would be formed through interaction between various factors such as natural environment, life culture, loose commercial networks, exemplary cultural complexes and central polities. Though we need to do more verification of this quite new and valuable index of periodization, we should keep these criteria in mind and see the changes in each field of study.Vol. 1 (Yamamoto Tatsuro (ed.), The Proto-history of the Southeast Asian World, Iwanami Shoten, 2001, xv+337p.) presents a compilation of knowledge of archaeological and historical studies on the Southeast Asia up to the 10th century. Amazingly, the discussion covers the whole region of Southeast Asia including Yunnan, and each specialist presents well arranged discussions on such important issues as subsistence, state formation, trade and relations with China and India. It is particularly successful in addressing the relationship between trade networks and the formation of the regional polities.As well known, while written sources related to the pre-modern ages of this area are limited, the archaeology provides new data and is increasing its explanatory role. This volume is one of the best trials to connect studies from both archaeological and documentary sources. However, because of difference of the methodologies and concepts, there are still inconsistencies and unsuitable citations concerning the mutually interesting matters. What is really needed is a balanced dialogue between archaeologists and historians to coordinate concepts and terminology for more effective interdisciplinary studies.Vol. 2 (Ishizawa Yoshiaki (ed.), The Rise and Development of Ancient Southeast Asian States, Iwanami Shoten, 2001, xii+316p.) deals with the various aspects of change from the 9/10th through the 14/15th century. It challenges the “13th century crisis” theory and tries to view the change occurring in the 14th century. Among those changes it is noteworthy to observe the emergence of new social classes, such as a peasantry in North Vietnam and athi in Burma. In the cultural sphere, there arose popular Tantric-Mahayana Buddhism in various areas. In contrast to such changes, there existed continuity from 13th century oil. For example, we are shown that there were no drastic changes, like the “Thai Century” in Mainland Southeast Asia and we can still see the flourishing of the “Indian Empire” and Indian culture in East Java. Whether those new facts can be applied to the whole region is still in question, but it is obvious that we need do more research on 14th century Southeast Asia.