Go Nation

Go Nation: Exploring Chinese Masculinity through the Game of Weiqi The game of Go (Weiqi in Chinese) has been a staple of East Asian culture for centuries, with written records dating back to the 4th century BC. Its popularity has endured, with a steadily increasing global fan base. As Chinese politics have evolved over time, so too has the symbolism associated with the game. In Imperial times, Go was seen as a tool for spiritual enlightenment and one of the four noble arts required to become a cultured gentleman. However, during the Cultural Revolution, it became stigmatized as an emblem of feudalism's lingering effects. Today, Go is once again celebrated as a marker of refined masculinity. Marc L. Moskowitz delves into the game's fascinating history and provides insight into contemporary Chinese Go players. By examining Weiqi through the lens of Chinese masculinity, nationalism, and class, Moskowitz sheds light on the PRC's efforts to reconfigure its history and traditions for the future. This nuanced exploration offers a unique perspective on the complexities of modern China.