Mencius: Works (Classics) - Softcover

Mencius

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0140442286 ISBN 13: 9780140442281

Publisher: Penguin Classics, 1976

Synopsis

The Confucian philosopher, Mencius (c.371-288 BC) explicated his master's moral principles and reinterpreted them for the harsh conditions of the 4th century BC, when they were threatened by the aggressive and amoral doctrines of legalism. With its stress on the "thinking heart" (or individual conscience), "Mencius" is a defence of morality in private and public life.

About this title

Review

While "Mencius" may be generally more 'accessible' when compared with other classical Chinese texts, as P. J. Ivanhoe observes, it is still a challenge to capture in translation the flavor of its fine prose and the force of its arguments. This, I think, is precisely what Bloom sets out to do, and we are richly rewarded for her effort. Her translation is eminently reliable and has a graceful directness and simplicity. Ivanhoe's introduction helpfully highlights key ethical, political, and religious views and relates them to relevant contemporary philosophical debates. This book will be widely used and consulted by scholars.--Alan K. L. Chan, National University of Singapore

About the Author

D. C. Lau, a world renowned scholar on sinological studies, is professor emeritus of Chinese language and lliterature at The Chinese University of Hong Kong. He is reknowned for his classic English translations of the Tao Te Ching and The Analects of Confucius.

Edition details

• Publisher: Penguin Classics
• Publication date: 1976
• ISBN 10: 0140442286
• ISBN 13: 9780140442281
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 288