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Historical Background
Historical Background
Chopsticks originated more than 3,000 years ago during China's Shang Dynasty (about 1600-1046 BC). Early records show that chopsticks were originally used for cooking rather than eating. The earliest chopsticks appeared around the Han Dynasty (206 BC-220 BC), when food began to be cut into small pieces before serving, thus reducing the need for knives at the table (Wang, 2001).
Cultural Significance
Cultural Significance
Confucius, an important figure in the history of Chinese philosophy, advocated using chopsticks instead of knives at the table because knives were associated with violence and promoted a more harmonious dining experience (Confucius, The Analects). Over time, this philosophy contributed to the widespread use of chopsticks as staple food utensils in China and other countries.
Development and Evolution
Early Chopsticks
(Shang & Zhou Dynasties)
Imperial Era
(Han–Tang Dynasties)
Medieval Period
(Song–Qing Dynasties)
Modern Era
"Chopsticks" was originally called "zhu", and the transformation from "zhu" to "chopsticks" went through a long time, and the last scene in which "chopsticks" replaced "zhu" was its English translation. Chopsticks once amazed the Westerners who came to China for the first time. Matteo Ricci, a missionary in the Wanli period, was surprised by the tedious and careful etiquette, delicate and extravagant food and utensils at the frequent banquets held in the late Ming Dynasty. He was especially shocked by the fact that Chinese people did not use knives and forks to eat, but used very smooth chopsticks, which could easily put any kind of food into the mouth. Including boiled eggs. But the scholar, who with Xu Guangqi introduced mathematical terms such as "geometry", "right Angle", "acute Angle" and "obtuse Angle" into Chinese, forgot to introduce the term "zhu" or "chopsticks" to his fellow Europeans. It was not until more than 200 years later that Pidgin English, popular in the Shanghai Concession, began to translate "chopstick" as "quick stick". Although the translator may not understand the original change of "chopsticks" to "chopsticks", but it is also wrong, can not say what is wrong. After historical development and cultural spread, until today, Japan still uses the name "chopsticks"
Comparison of Chinese, Japanese, and Korean Chopsticks
Chinese Chopsticks
Chinese Chopsticks
Length: The longest, usually 25-27 cm, suitable for picking up a variety of food, especially for sharing large dishes.
Shape: round head or square, the end is blunt, easy to pick up rice, noodles, meat, etc.
Material: Mainly made of bamboo and wood, there are also ivory, lacquer or plastic chopsticks. In history, the nobility would use silver chopsticks (which are said to detect poison).
Usage: Just use chopsticks, suitable for all food, including rice, noodles, vegetables, soup, etc.
Japanese Chopsticks
Japanese Chopsticks
Length: Shorter, usually 18-22 cm, suitable for individual meals, especially fish.
Shape: Pointed, thin end, suitable for picking sashimi or fine bones in fish.
Material: Wood or lacquer, some high-grade chopsticks are made of natural bamboo and painted with lacquer to prevent moisture absorption.
Usage: Mainly use chopsticks, but you can hold a bowl when eating, and drink miso soup directly with a bowl.
Korean Chopsticks
Korean Chopsticks
Length: between Japan and Japan, usually 22-24 cm, used with a spoon.
Shape: flat, sharp edges, good anti-slip effect, suitable for picking up barbecue and other food.
Material: Metal material (mostly stainless steel), traditionally the aristocracy used copper or silver chopsticks. Durable and easy to clean.
Usage: Chopsticks are used with a spoon. Chopsticks are used to pick up food, and the spoon is specially used to scoop rice and drink soup. South Korea is influenced by medieval aristocratic culture, using spoons and chopsticks, which is similar to parts of northern China.
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