by Maureen Leung

Created on: November 27, 2011   Last Updated: November 28, 2011

Class division was the central part of the Fengjian structure, a political ideology of Zhou Dynasty in ancient China. Confucius and Legalist scholars of Zhou wanted to segregate Chinese people into various classes. They developed a class stratum based on occupation, education and status. By developing a class stratum, Chinese could identify their jobs and social status. Over the years, the identity and status of social classes changed as the commercialization of the Chinese dynasties changed.

The shi held the highest status in ancient China, which they gained access to material comfort. They wore long silk robes as an indication of their identity and status. They also had the right to carry weapons, command battles, and ride in chariots. Above all, they had the highest education in the empire. Most of their education was based on Confucius’ classical texts. During the Zhou Dynasty (1046-221 B.C.E.), armies who had once served the Shang rulers performed many services. They cultivated lands and produced crops. They also served as clerks, advisors, scribes, and overseers. As armies performed many services, they won their occupation as administrators.

As administrators, the shi organized rituals and ceremonies. They also performed civil functions, such as public works or war. During the Warring State period (403-221 B.C.), there were constant battles among kingdoms while philosophical school flourished in China. Rulers sought men who had a military than an aristocratic background. The shi had both backgrounds to join the army. Thus, they were known not only for their military skill but also for their philosophy skills.

During this period and throughout the Chinese dynasties, scholars considered peasants as a valuable member of the society. Peasants known as “nong” held the second highest status. They cultivated land and grew a variety of food.  Besides that, peasants provided services to the nobles, such as being the servants to the nobles. Above all, they provided revenue to the country.

Although peasants did not hold the highest status in society, they were better than artisans. Artisans made up the lowest strata in the Shang era (1600-1046 B.C.E.).  Later, throughout the Chinese dynasties, artisans held as the third class residence. Artisans known as “gong” were slaves. They had no power in society.  Their job was to produce essential

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