Ch. 20: Japan's Golden Age

Why is the Heian period called Japan's golden age?

• because of its rich mines

• because of its foreign trade

• because of its military power

• because of its art and literature

Which group was most responsible for the achievements of Japan's golden age?

• aristocrats

• farmers

• emperors

• merchants

Why would a visitor to the home of a Heian aristocrat see few objects?

• Simplicity was thought to be beautiful.

• Valuables were hidden to prevent theft.

• The wood floors were considered dirty.

• The nobles lacked money to buy things.

How did the Fujiwara family gain political power?

• by taking over the position of emperor.

• by getting support from unhappy peasants.

• by marrying daughters into the royal family.

• by gaining a monopoly on international trade.

Why is the "Tale of Genji" especially famous?

• It records the lives of ordinary farmers.

• It reveals secrets about the royal family.

• It was retold as an oral history.

• It may have been the world's first novel.

If people saw 2 Heian men carrying fans with different folds, it would mean the men

• had different tastes

• held different ranks

• had reached different ages

• belonged to different clans

Which royal practice helped bring the Heian period to an end?

• imposing military control

• taxing most land too heavily

• providing food to the hungry

• giving large estates to nobles

In Japan today, the lasting influence of the Heian period is strongest in

• rank and class

• literature and drama

• science and technology

• politics and government