This dynasty is often considered mythological:

• A. Xia
• B. Shang
• C. Qin
• D. Han

Answer: (A)

The Xia dynasty is often considered mythological because historical evidence supporting its existence is limited and primarily comes from ancient texts and legends rather than archaeological findings. The Xia, which is said to have ruled from around 2070 to 1600 BCE, is believed to be the first dynasty in Chinese history according to traditional accounts. However, much of what is known about it derives from texts like the Records of the Grand Historian written by Sima Qian, which were compiled many centuries later.

These accounts include tales of legendary rulers and significant events that blend history and mythology, leading scholars to debate the historical validity of the Xia dynasty. In contrast, the Shang and Zhou dynasties have extensive archaeological evidence, including artifacts and written records that confirm their existence and characteristics. The Qin and Han dynasties also have a well-documented historical impact, further solidifying their status in Chinese history. This context underscores why the Xia dynasty is often viewed through a lens of myth rather than established historical fact.