The Analects of Confucius: A Philosophical Translation - Paperback

The Analects of Confucius: A Philosophical Translation

This authoritative translation of the Analects presents the recorded thoughts and deeds of Confucius (551-479 BCE), China's first and greatest teacher whose ideas formed the foundation of Chinese cultural tradition. This edition stands apart as the first English translation informed by the Dingzhou manuscript discovered in 1973, a partial text dating to 55 BCE that represents the earliest Analects yet discovered.

Scholarly Translation Based on Ancient Manuscript

The Dingzhou manuscript, made available to scholars only in 1997, provides a new perspective on this central canonical text that has defined Chinese culture for millennia. Translators Roger T. Ames and Henry Rosemont, Jr. have created a work that serves both as an accessible introduction to Confucian thought and as an authoritative resource for sophisticated philosophical debate.

Complete Chinese and English Texts

This bilingual edition includes both Chinese and English texts, making it valuable for students, scholars, and anyone interested in reading Confucius in the original language alongside expert translation. The parallel presentation illuminates the spirit and values of Confucius with unprecedented clarity.

Historical Context and Philosophical Significance

Confucius lived during an era of escalating violence as seven powerful states warred for supremacy in the proto-Chinese world. Despite his popularity as a teacher and the success of his students in finding political office, Confucius had limited influence in his home state of Lu. He traveled as an itinerant philosopher, persuading political leaders that his teachings offered a formula for social and political success. Eventually, his philosophies came to dictate behavioral standards for all of society, including emperors.

Expert Translators

Roger T. Ames is a professor of Chinese philosophy at the University of Hawaii and Director of its Center for Chinese Studies. He has authored several interpretative studies on classical Confucianism and his translation of Sun-Tzu: The Art of Warfare is recognized as a landmark work. Henry Rosemont, Jr. served as George B. and Willma Reeves Distinguished Professor of the Liberal Arts at St. Mary's College of Maryland and Senior Consulting Professor at Fudan University.

"To quietly persevere in storing up what is learned, to continue studying without respite, to instruct others without growing weary--is this not me?" --Confucius