The Great Encounter of China and the West, 1500–1800 (Critical Issues in World and International History)

Very enriching book. But the book adheres to old standard of understanding of China. It considers China after Ming and Qing as close-minded, and considered Chinese in late 16th century to be a people of ethnocentrism. His views are challenged by other scholars, such as the book "China's last empire". Anyway, the book itself offers very good evidence about the Jesuits in and European perspective on China, but keep in mind that his ideas risked to be accused as "eurocentric". His idea that China was close-minded and as a self-oriented country lacked sufficient evidence, and is outdated by books such as "Sextant of Beijing".

As a theology student, this book was extremely insightful to the beginnings of Christianity in China. This is an informative read for any missionary.

I read this book as part of my East Asian History and Culture course I was required to take as a part of my college's core curriculum. That said, it was still very enjoyable to read, informative, and well-organized. I will keep this one on my shelf.

Awesome Book.