Matteo Ricci's Perspective on 16th-Century China - Focusing on Matteo Ricci Chinese Missionary

Through this article, we aim to explore the perspective from which Matteo Ricci initiated his activities and how his records were documented. The primary focus of this study is to highlight Ricci's significance in defining Chinese cultural identity and tradition. His detailed accounts encompassed various aspects, including social institutions, academic and judicial systems, strictly observed etiquette, and religious issues prevailing in 16th-century China. Ricci's records reveal the complex reality of China during this era. Despite considering itself superior, the nation closed its doors to the outside world while undergoing a decline. Ricci documented instances where philosophy was esteemed, yet science, including mathematics and medicine, was overlooked. These circumstances contributed to China lagging behind the West in scientific and technological advancements. Furthermore, Ricci portrayed Chinese virtues such as filial piety and funeral culture in his records, which appeared 'foreign' and distinctive to Western observers. Of peculiar note to Ricci was the juxtaposition of superstitious worship practices in a society that valued etiquette highly. The detailed description of this phenomenon likely influenced later missionary efforts in China and provided the West with a nuanced understanding of China, albeit with potential positive and negative implications depending on the interpreter.