Confucius & his Analects

Didactic Literature (p. 432) What is didactic literature? Literature that instructs its readers Brainstorm some different forms of didactic literature. What is the difference between a parable and an anecdote? How do they differ from a maxim?

Maxims Maxim: a well-known phrase that expresses a general truth about life or a rule about behavior. Example: “The noble minded are calm and steady. Little people are forever fussing and fretting.” What does this mean? How is it a maxim? How does the construction of this maxim make it special? The Analects contain many of Confucius’ maxims.

Confucius (p. 434) Philosopher who was interested in the idea of “right relationship” Passionate about restoring order, but could never get enough political power. Instead spread his ideas to rulers on education and moral order. Unique in the fact he taught not only the aristocracy but also to other classes.

Confucius and the Analects The Analects: a collection of 500 sayings, dialogues, and brief stories. Over time, became the basis for Chinese government and society Made up of 3 main concepts: Humanity Gentlemen Ritual

Humanity The highest ideal for moral behavior in Confucian thought. Concerned with how a person behaves toward others. Demonstrated through respect, truthfulness, generosity, and love. THE MOST IMPORTANT QUALITY TO HAVE.

Gentleman Refers to a person who is committed to an ethical life, not just a man of aristocratic birth. An aristocrat could lose the right to be called a gentleman, and an ordinary person could become a gentleman. Confucius believed that a person’s morality was more important than their social status/class.

Ritual Covers all of what Confucius believed was proper conduct. Everyday manners & religious observances. Having a ritual was essential to a sense of order and respect in society, according to Confucius.

Questions about the excerpt from the Analects (p. 436)? Here are some of mine: What is filial piety? What is reciprocity? What is “The Way”?

Analectic Activity With your ______ partner, discuss your favorite ¶s and why your liked them. Then, rewrite 5 of your favorite ¶s in an IRL context emulating Conf.’s style. Ex: Re-read ¶ 1 & 4 1st ¶: Russell Wilson said [to his apprentice Mr. Paananen]; “Don’t worry if you’re not named Super Bowl MVP; worry that you’ll be too cocky to practice so Colin Kaepernick beats you.” 4th ¶: Justin Bieber said [to a Belieber]: “To practice without performing is a waste. To perform without practicing is, like, dangerous, girl.”