Oxford Events, the new replacement for OxTalks, will launch on 16th March. From now until the launch of Oxford Events, new events cannot be published or edited on OxTalks while all existing records are migrated to the new platform. The existing OxTalks site will remain available to view during this period.
From 16th, Oxford Events will launch on a new website: events.ox.ac.uk, and event submissions will resume. You will need a Halo login to submit events. Full details are available on the Staff Gateway.
This research aims to explore the mystique surrounding stalactitic formations and their significant roles within both Eastern and Western cultural contexts. The study focuses on Ancient China stalactites, which held a central position in traditional Chinese medicine and the daily lives of its inhabitants. By examining the meticulous application of these exquisite geological structures for medicinal purposes, this discourse provides profound insights into the intricate tapestry of Chinese therapeutic traditions. Additionally, it delves into the astonishing diversification of stalactite utilization, extending beyond the medical sphere to encompass non-medical applications.
The research project also investigates the rationale behind attributing extraordinary functions to stalactites within ancient civilizations, which serves as a central theme. Furthermore, it explores captivating beliefs and folklore that have enshrouded these formations across millennia. The resulting elucidations shed compelling light on the profound interplay between the natural world and the evolution of human culture.
The primary goal of this study is to unravel underlying commonalities between East and West that underscore the universal appeal and significance of these geological wonders within diverse cultural narratives.