The Funeral of Matteo Ricci SJ (1552–1610) in the Historiae Sinarum Imperii by Tomasz Szpot Dunin
Cultural Interaction
Abstract
The article analyzes the circumstances of the funeral of the Italian Jesuit Matteo Ricci, who died in Beijing in 1610. The author emphasizes the cultural complexity of this event and explores the broad cultural and religious context of China’s collision with Western civilization. Using historical and cultural analysis methods, mainly based on Historiae Sinarum Imperii by Tomasz Szpot Dunin, the author examines Confucian funeral ceremonies, their social and cultural significance, and their impact on cultural rapprochement between the East and West. The practices are compared with Western traditions, analyzing similarities and differences. Special attention is given to how Christianity and Confucianism contributed to Ricci’s unique funeral ceremony, combining elements of both cultures. The article highlights Ricci’s controversial figure and his significant impact on understanding and acceptance between cultures, with his funeral symbolizing harmony between Eastern and Western traditions, demonstrating how respect for local practices can transform intercultural relations.
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