HPC 09. Family Values: Confucian Role Ethics

The Book of Odes, also known as the Classic of Poetry or Book of Songs, is a collection of 305 poems that date back to the 11th to 7th centuries BC. It includes folk songs, minor and major court hymns, and eulogies. The poems cover a wide range of themes such as love, nature, daily activities, and social issues. Although traditionally attributed to Confucius, the actual authors are unknown and likely include various individuals from the Eastern Zhou period. The collection has been a cornerstone of Chinese education and Confucian learning for centuries, providing insights into early Chinese society and culture[1][3][5].

The Xiaojing, or 'The Classic of Filial Piety,' is an important text in Chinese literature that discusses the virtues and practices of filial piety, or the reverence for parents. It is presented as a dialogue between Confucius and one of his disciples, emphasizing the importance of respect, obedience, and care for one's parents. This text is often grouped with the Wujing ('Five Classics') in terms of its significance in Chinese literary and philosophical heritage.

The Book of Documents is one of the Five Classics of Confucianism and provides insight into the governance, morality, and social norms of early Chinese civilization. It includes 58 chapters detailing the events of ancient China, covering the deeds of early sage-kings and the history of the Xia, Shang, and Zhou dynasties. The text reflects the values and beliefs that shaped society during that era and includes speeches, political documents, and philosophical writings[2][4][5].

The Spring and Autumn Annals is the official chronicle of the State of Lu, covering a 242-year period from 722 to 481 BCE. It is the earliest surviving Chinese historical text arranged in annals form and is one of the Five Classics of Chinese literature. The text is known for its terse style, with entries averaging only 10 characters, recording events such as accessions, marriages, deaths, battles, sacrificial rituals, and natural disasters. Although Confucius did not expound on his philosophical ideas within the text, it is heavily associated with his teachings and has been elaborated upon by various commentaries, most notably the Zuo Zhuan, to provide deeper understanding and context[2][4][5].

The Analects is a classic text that addresses practical issues of life and conduct through dialogues, stories, and anecdotes. Confucius's teachings focus on virtue, happiness, state governance, and human relationships, all based on principles of justice and moderation. Translated by Arthur Waley and introduced by Sarah Allan, this edition remains one of the most influential texts in philosophy even after two and a half millennia.