The Confucian Analects, the Great Learning & the Doctrine of the Mean - Couverture souple

Confucius

Couverture souple

ISBN 10 : 1605206431 ISBN 13 : 9781605206431

Editeur : Cosimo Classics, 2009

Synopsis

Notable not only for its comprehensiveness but also for its inclusion of the Chinese pictograms, this complete text of the *Analects* of the greatest philosopher of Chinese history is a must-own volume for any student of Confucius (551BC-479 BC). From the disposition of a land's rulers to the value of prayer, the thoughts of Confucius have powerfully shaped the moral life and political structures of Asian nations, and influenced the direction of the Western world as well. Here, Legge offers an enlightening introduction to the *Analects, * copious notes that place the sayings in cultural context, and much more assistance for the lay reader in understanding the depth of Confucius' wisdom. This three-in-one volume, originally published in this form in 1893, also includes *The Great Learning, * the Confucian illustration of illustrious virtue, and *The Doctrine of the Mean, * the thinker's explication of the path of duty. Scottish scholar JAMES LEGGE (1815-1897) was the first professor of Chinese language and literature at Oxford University, serving from 1876 to 1897. Among his many books are The Life and Teaching of Confucius (1867), The Religions of China (1880), and the 50-volume Sacred Books of the East (1879-1891).

A propos du livre

Présentation de l'éditeur

This compilation contains three of the most revered and celebrated texts by the ancient Chinese philosopher Confucius.

The Analects of Confucius

Originally, these sayings and conversations were penned during the Warring States period of Chinese antiquity, which saw great social upheaval between the various realms of the Middle Kingdom. Divided into twenty principle chapters (called books) - the subjects range from wise behaviour in times of crisis to general instruction upon how to live a peaceful life characterised by a serene mood, humility to others, and quality work performed well.

The importance of harmonious relations in the family and wider community cooperation are also alluded to, offering an insight into the morals and customs of ancient Chinese life. The politics of the time, which were riddled with violent infighting among noble families and regional dukedoms, attracts attention from Confucius and his contemporaries.

In order to vividly illustrate his points, examples and analogies abound and are delivered by Confucius as he engages with several other philosophers and acolytes.

The Great Learning

One of the classic four books of ancient Confucianism, The Great Learning consists of a short initial commentary attributed to Confucius himself, followed by a lengthier tract written by one of his disciples named Zengzi.

The text emphasises achieving balance in everyday life and in thoughts. For the man who aspires to great wisdom, much time must be set aside for rest and contemplation. Life's priorities must be organised according to their importance, and harmony must be rigorously cultivated in everyday associations and relationships. In learning, one must not consider one kind superior to the exclusion of others, but must instead strive for balance.

The Doctrine of the Mean

Another classic book of Confucian thought, The Doctrine of the Mean is a practical guide for those aspiring to sublime wisdom. It demonstrates how a balanced, harmonious manner of living is the most conducive to joy and satisfaction - once one has embarked on the process of the mean, they may never depart it.

Good self-perception, a sincere heart and spirit, and treating others as oneself would like to be treated are the core principles of this text. For many centuries, it was a central pillar of education in China, since it emphasised the social bonds that exist between family members, and the people to the state.

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The translator James Legge was a Scottish Sinologist who spent much of his adult life in China collecting and translating the various philosophical and literary classics. Since Legge was present in the pre-modern China of the 19th century, where Confucianism held much sway, the authenticity of the tone cannot be doubted.

Devoting his talents to accurately rendering Confucian thought for Western consideration, Legge's translations of the Chinese Classics were originally published by Oxford University Press, and remain strongly appreciated for their authenticity to this day.

Détails de l'édition

• Éditeur: Cosimo Classics
• Date d'édition: 2009
• Langue: anglais
• ISBN 10: 1605206431
• ISBN 13: 9781605206431
• Reliure: Broché
• Nombre de pages: 518
• Coordonnées du fabricant: non disponible
• Personne responsable: non disponible