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Title: Korea's cultural roots by Jon Etta Hastings Carter Covell ISBN: 0-936718-03-X Publisher: Moth House Hollym Pub. Date: 1981 Format: Unknown Binding

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Average Customer Rating: 5 (1 review)

Rating: 5
Summary: A Unique Book on Korean Culture
Comment: This is a fabulous book for anyone fascinated with Asian culture. Written by a Dr. Jon Carter Covell, a Japanese and Korean art history scholar, the book can be enjoyed by someone unfamiliar with the Korean culture and also by students of Asian culture. The book is divided into three parts: Shaman Roots, Buddhist Roots, and Neo-Confucian Roots. While the headings may sound academic, the subjects are very interesting and written for the layman.

Shaman Roots was the most intriguing. It explained the history and significance of the Korean reindeer with the golden antlers, also known as the famous Silla golden crown. I was very interested by the chapter on long life goals - the Koreans have ten symbols of longevity! Korea's set of longevity symbols are more numerous and somewhat different from China's and Japan's and elicit much attention in Korean art. Included are separate chapters on evil-repelling symbols, good luck symbols, and special spirits.

Because of Dr. Covell's extensive background, there are several comparisons made with the Chinese and Japanese cultures, and how they influenced each other. Because of the easy style of writing, the reader almost feels like Dr. Covell is sharing her advertures with a friend. I was fascinated with her comments and comparison of a Japanese geisha and Korean kisaeng party! Historical facts are intertwined with art and cultural tidbits. This was the most comprehensive work I have found explaining Korea's unique culture. I even learned some new things about the Japanese and Chinese culture, an unexpected bonus.