Includes bibliographical references (pages 176-184) and index
Introduction -- Why chopsticks? Their origin and original function -- Dish, rice or noodle? The changing use of chopsticks -- Forming a chopsticks cultural sphere: Vietnam, Japan, Korea and beyond -- Using chopsticks: customs, manners and etiquette -- A pair inseparable: chopsticks as a gift, metaphor and symbol -- "Bridging" food cultures in the world
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"Chopsticks have become a quintessential part of the Japanese, Chinese and Korean culinary experience across the globe, with more than one fifth of the world's population using them daily to eat. In this vibrant, highly original account of the history of chopsticks, Q. Edward Wang charts their evolution from a simple eating implement in ancient times to their status as a much more complex, cultural symbol today. "--