当文明与秩序崩塌之时

Core Viewpoint - The narrative of "Another Journey to the West" by Miao Zixi explores the story of Che Fengchao, a Tang dynasty envoy, whose journey to the Western Regions reflects the rise and fall of the Tang dynasty amidst the backdrop of the An Lushan Rebellion and the geopolitical dynamics of the time [1][2][4]. Summary by Sections Historical Context - The Tang dynasty was at its peak, exerting influence over the Western Regions and Central Asia, including the vassal state of Kucha, which sought protection from the Tang against the expanding powers of the Umayyad Caliphate and Tibet [2][4]. - The envoy Che Fengchao, under the guidance of a Kucha monk, sought refuge in India to escape the turmoil caused by the An Lushan Rebellion, which marked the decline of the Tang dynasty [2][3]. Geopolitical Dynamics - The narrative highlights the delicate balance that Kucha had to maintain between the three powers: the Umayyad Caliphate, Tibet, and the Tang dynasty [1][2]. - The historical backdrop includes the conflicts between nomadic and agrarian civilizations, with the Tang dynasty's establishment of protectorates in the Western Regions to manage these tensions [4][5]. Military Conflicts - The Tang dynasty faced significant military challenges, including the rise of the Eastern Turkic Khaganate and subsequent conflicts that led to territorial losses [6][7][10]. - The narrative discusses the military engagements between the Tang and Tibet, particularly the battles that drained the Tang's resources and ultimately led to the loss of the Western Regions [10][12]. Cultural and Individual Perspectives - Miao Zixi employs a documentary-style narrative to depict the personal journey of Che Fengchao, reflecting on the broader historical events while emphasizing individual experiences [13][14]. - The story illustrates the collapse of civilization and order, while simultaneously reshaping the worldview of the Central Plains, connecting various civilizations across Inner Asia, East Asia, and South Asia [14].