Korean Ancient Origins: Stories of People & Civilization

Korea's myths and folklore are rooted in the ancient history of a land inhabited since Neolithic times, with references to the Gojoseon Kingdom in the 2300s BCE. Records become more reliable from the middle of the first millennium BCE, before a 700-year stretch known as The Three Kingdom period. The Joseon Dynasty swept to power in the 1200s, heralding a golden era of independence, scientific and social development, and the creation of the Korean alphabet. This book explores the ancient history of Korea through curated extracts from classic historical texts complemented by insightful new introductions from Stella Xu.

Format: Hardback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 26 March 2024
Publisher: Flame Tree Publishing

Korea's rich tapestry of myths and folklore is intricately woven into the ancient history of a land that has been inhabited since the Neolithic era. The earliest years of this captivating narrative are shrouded in myth, with some references to the Gojoseon Kingdom emerging in the northern region of Korea and the Southern province of China during the 2300s BCE. However, as time progresses, the records become more reliable, marking the beginning of the Three Kingdom period, a pivotal era characterized by the dominance of three powerful kingdoms: Silla, Baekje, and Goguryeo. This period lasted for approximately 700 years until the eventual ascendance of Silla, roughly coinciding with the Viking Age in Europe and Scandinavia.

Yet, the tides of history would soon shift, as the Mongol invasions in the 1200s brought a tumultuous period to Korea. Over two centuries later, the Joseon Dynasty emerged, heralding a remarkable era of independence, scientific and social development, and the creation of the Korean alphabet. This transformative period marked a significant turning point in Korean history, laying the foundation for the nation's cultural and intellectual heritage.

In order to delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Korea's ancient history, Flame Tree Collector's Editions has curated a collection of essential historical texts, complemented by insightful new introductions written by Stella Xu. This beautiful new book offers readers a captivating journey through time, exploring the foundations of speculative fiction, authors, myths, and tales that have shaped the imaginative literature of the twentieth century. Each book in the series features a fresh introduction, providing valuable insights into the historical context and significance of the featured works. Additionally, a comprehensive list of Ancient Kings & Leaders or a Glossary of Terms is included to enhance the reader's understanding and appreciation of the ancient world.

By presenting these classic historical texts in a striking and collectable library, Flame Tree Collector's Editions ensures that the legacy of Korea's ancient history remains accessible and engaging for generations to come. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a speculative fiction lover, or simply seeking to broaden your knowledge and appreciation of world culture, this collection is a must-have for anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of Korea's past.

Weight: 316g
Dimension: 118 x 175 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781804177846