Introduction: Definitions, Themes, and Debate
Keyword(s):
This chapter introduces Erlitou as the first dynasty of the Bronze Age by reviewing differing opinions and the basis for identifying the Erlitou Culture as that of Xia, ca. 2100–1600 bce. After tracing the historiography of excavations and definitions the chapter reviews connections with the preceding and overlapping Longshan era, particularly Taosi in Shanxi province. Finally analysis focuses on the history of excavations and finds (1959–present) and the current state of research on the significance of the Erlitou culture. Due to the elusiveness of any transmitted textual data to verify the historicity of Xia, the debate surrounding the “Xia dynasty” goes on.