Dr. Donald Stadtner
The Burmese in Upper Burma and Mon in Lower Burma fashioned separate myths that defined the foundation of the state and the introduction of Buddhism. These two distinct realms remained relatively isolated from one another until the conquest of Lower Burma by Burmese forces in the 16th century. Some key Mon myths disappeared, while others arose that were anti-Burmese but couched to escape reprisal. Some Mon myths, however, were embraced by the Burmese and even came to define modern Burma, such as the legends enveloping the Shwedagon and the Golden Rock at Kyaik-hti-yo. This period then highlights a time when Mon and Burmese traditions blended in ways that are still evolving.
Donald Stadtner was for many years an Associate Professor at the University of Texas, Austin, after completing his Ph.D. in Indian art at UC Berkeley. His new book, "Sacred Sites of Burma" is to be issued later this year. He divides his time between the Bay Area and research trips to India and Southeast Asia.
The Center for Southeast Asia Studies, UC Berkeley presents a brown bag lecture
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
12:30 – 2:00 p.m.
IEAS Conference Room, 6th floor,
2223 Fulton St. (at Kittredge), Berkeley CA
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