Power Kingdom
- In the 12th century the Pagan ruled over Myanmar.
- The Pagan religion was Buddhism, but they adopted the Hindu way.
- Location: Southeast Asia.
- Monarch system.
Shwezigon Pagoda
The Shwezigon Pagoda Kingdom was considered a powerhouse in Southeast Asia. The capital that the kingdom was located in is Arimaddanapura. To the Pagans this grand kingdom wasn't nearly enough. Shortly after they begin building smaller temples around the structure, which gave it more significance.
Front view: Shwezigon Pagoda
At the top of the structure is a tall sort of pointed dome. From looking at the city it is obviously one of the tallest structures in the city. Its very reminiscent of a "wu wu", which is based off of who is the most dominant. While observing the structure I also noticed that in this picture it is lighted at night. This adds a extra characteristics to the dominance of the structure.
Decoration around the Shwezigon Pagoda
Along the Shwezigon Pagoda there are motifs and decoration. The decoration is there for aesthetics, but the motifs are there to tell a story. In these walls are tales about Buddha. There are also excerpts from the Buddhists text. These didactic panels were clear evidence of the religion of the Pagans. Carving faith in stone was not limited to just certain parts of the world. The influence stretched as far as Asia.
Sources
A Global History of Architecture. Ching, 396-397
Very nice analysis of the Shwezigon Pagoda. Consider citing the reading within your text. What is the connection to the present day?
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