Bhutan: The Unremembered Nation (Vol.2, Art and Ideals)

This volume and its prequel provide a collective remembrance of a world before modernization began in the 1960s, covering monumental architecture, authority and power, cosmological concepts, religions and rites, visualization and meditation, visual arts, and folk drama.

Format: Hardback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 20 February 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press

The process of modernization has brought about significant disruptions in the collective memory of society. To address this, this volume and its predecessor serve as a collective remembrance, bringing together a diverse range of voices and narratives. Through its pages, readers are transported to a world that existed before the onset of modernization in the 1960s. Volume 2 delves into various aspects of Bhutanese culture and society, including monumental architecture, government administration, authority and power, cosmological concepts and beliefs, religions and rituals, visualization and meditation, visual arts, and folk drama. Additionally, certain chapters explore the monastic life and monkhood, as well as the profound impact of Guru Rinpoche on the land and its people.

Introduction:
The process of modernization has had a profound impact on the collective memory of society. As societies transition from traditional ways of life to more modernized ones, there are often discontinuities in the way people remember and interpret their past. This volume and its predecessor aim to address this issue by providing a collective remembrance of Bhutanese culture and society.

Volume 1:
Volume 1 of this series focuses on the pre-modern era of Bhutan, covering the period from the 12th century to the 19th century. It provides a detailed account of the country's history, culture, and society, including the rise and fall of different kingdoms, the development of traditional arts and crafts, and the influence of religion on daily life. Through the stories and anecdotes shared in this volume, readers gain a deeper understanding of the rich tapestry of Bhutanese history and culture.

Volume 2:
Volume 2 of this series takes a closer look at the period of modernization in Bhutan, from the 19th century to the present day. It explores the various changes that have occurred in society, including the introduction of modern technologies, the expansion of education, and the impact of globalization. The volume also delves into the monumental architecture of dzongs (castles), the administration of the country, authority and power, cosmological concepts and beliefs, religions and rites, visualization and meditation, visual arts, and folk drama that affected the daily life of the people.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this volume and its predecessor serve as a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about Bhutanese culture and society. They provide a collective remembrance of the past, while also offering insights into the challenges and opportunities that the country faces in the modern world. By exploring the rich tapestry of Bhutanese history and culture, readers can gain a deeper appreciation for the unique and fascinating culture of this small but remarkable nation.

Dimension: 216 x 140 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780192868572