The Rise of Confucius in Early Chinese Culture

Confucius gained significant influence during the Han period, approximately 250 years after his death, becoming a central figure in the educational and political landscape of the time. His teachings and conversations, which were initially captured in texts like the Analects, began to be ascribed a set of moral standards, impacting the selection of government officials and the establishment of Confucian orthodoxy. Texts such as the Mencius highlighted Confucius' wisdom and ethical superiority, while recent archaeological discoveries suggest that multiple collections of his dialogues circulated during the Warring States period, contributing to his esteemed status. Ultimately, it was the formalization of his ideas that transitioned Confucianism into an influential school of thought supported by the state.