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Conceptions of Urban Space in Duan Chengshi's "Record of Monasteries and Stupas"

Abstract This article explores different ways in which Duan Chengshi (?–863) conceptualized the spaces of Chang'an's urban monasteries within his 853 "Record of Monasteries and Stupas" (Sita ji). To begin with, Duan thought of places as occupying set coordinates in Chang'an's urban grid which adjoin or overlook neighboring wards and residences and whose contents transformed over time. Duan also portrayed these locations as settings for tales of mysterious or unusual events and as sites of visual spectacle and public display where urban residents watched ritual performances and imperial processions or viewed displays of relics, religious objects, and art. Finally, Duan showed how monasteries could serve as retreats where visitors might escape the stresses of urban life and enjoy the company of friends and resident monks. The essay concludes by examining how in Duan's "Record" these places also served as sites of memory, as Duan used his account of them to correct earlier depictions, to celebrate the memory of deceased friends, and to offer a testament to the former magnificence of the Buddhist monasteries of Chang'an and the important roles they played in the geography, history, and social life of the city.