Some Observations Upon the Civilization of the Western Barbarians, Particularly of the English made during the residence of some years in those parts.

"Some Observations Upon the Civilization of the Western Barbarians, Particularly of the English" by Ah-Chin-Le is a historical record from the 1800s that offers a unique look at Western society through the eyes of a Chinese official. It focuses mainly on the customs, faith, and how people in England were organized, viewed from a different cultural point. The writing touches on what it means to be civilized, what people believe in, and what is right and wrong, as it attempts to give both a critical and thoughtful understanding of the seeming "uncivilized" ways of the West. The book starts with Ah-Chin-Le explaining his task and what he noticed while living in England, sent by the Chinese royal court. He starts by talking about the religion and superstitions of the English, questioning their beliefs and comparing them to what the Chinese value. The way the book is written switches between a careful report on English traditions and a funny take on their moral flaws, exploring disagreements among Christian groups and what those disagreements mean for society. In the end, Ah-Chin-Le's thoughts show not only what he saw in the West, but also a deeper look at what civilization is and how it can be full of contradictions.