Chinese Literature 1000 B.C.- A.D. 1890 Know contentment And you will suffer no disgrace; Know when to stop And you will meet with no danger. You can then endure. - the Tao Te Ching

Chinese Literature China is the world’s oldest surviving civilization, lasting well over 3500 years. Chinese history is generally divided into dynasties, family or group of people who reigned. Shang 1766 B.C.- 1122 B.C. Chou 1122 B.C.- 221B.C. Ch’in 221 B.C.-206 A.D. Within each dynasty were many small states; however, they were united into one large empire.

Literary Context Poetry is a part of everyday life throughout the history of China. Poets have been among the most highly regarded members of Chinese society. 2nd – 12th centuries A.D. the main Chinese poetic form was the shih (she) Even number of lines, each of which has the same number of words. Often expressed personal emotions. Many have brooding or troubled tone, but can express elation or contentment.

Chinese Philosophy Contrast between Chinese and Western modes of philosophic thinking Western philosophers seek out the being of things, the essential reality lying behind appearances Chinese principal the establishment and cultivation of harmonious relationships within their social structures Chinese thinking is far more concrete, this-worldly and, above all, practical.

Cultural Context Chinese attitudes & beliefs were shaped by 3 religious and philosophical schools: Taoism Confucianism Buddhism

Taoism Tao- path or the way Stresses freedom, simplicity & the mystical contemplation of nature (“Tao”). Force that controlled the universe. Beyond the scope of human concerns, but can see its workings by observing nature. Avoid human desires Not educating Not honoring men of worth or encourage cleaver to act Cause jealousy and greed Opposite of Confucianism

Confucianism How people act- moral behavior Social relations based on subordination: family ruled by authoritarian father, state ruled by authoritarian king. Respect & obey those with superior status. However, governed by the concept ren- with a loving attitude towards others.

Confucianism Tried to teach students to become true gentlemen- morally & spiritually Must conduct oneself in a virtuous manner; those in power serve as models. Heaven is the supreme moral authority, which dictates how one must live.

Buddhism To lead a moral life To be mindful and aware of thoughts and actions To develop wisdom and understanding Life is sorrow and sorrow is caused by desires Rid self of desires Does not claim to be God

Attain enlightenment through meditation Solutions to our problems are within ourselves Beliefs are incorporated into poetry through symbols, imagery and language of Chinese Literature. Quietude and calmness is a central notion in Buddhist thought.

5 Precepts Not to take the life of anything living Not to take anything not freely given To abstain from sexual misconduct and sexual overindulgences Refrain from untrue speech Avoid intoxication (losing mindfulness)

Karma The law that everything has a cause and effect Our actions have results Why handicapped, why gifted People responsible for their past and present actions