Essential Mengzi: Selected Passages with Traditional Commentary

by Mengzi, Bryan W. Van Norden (Translator)

The Essential Mengzi offers a representative selection from Bryan Van Norden's acclaimed translation of the full work, including the most frequently studied passages and covering all of the work's major themes. An appendix of selections from the classic commentary of Zhu Xi--one of the most influential and insightful interpreters of Confucianism--keyed to relevant passages, provides access to the text and to its reception and interpretation. Also included are a general Introduction, timeline, glossary, and selected bibliography.

Genres: Philosophy, China, Nonfiction, Eastern Philosophy

192 pages, Paperback

First published September 15, 2009

Reviews

[татуаиа💫 · Rating 3 out of 5]

An ordinary and not very flashy book that I had to read for a college class, so it was nothing profound but more so insightful. Zhu Xi carefully interprets and defines the philosophy of Confucius and integrates it into how (ancient) Chinese rulers should behave, rules for gentlemen, and just the overall character of a benevolent ruler. Standard read and informative.

[James ♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

A truly insightful look into Mengzi's values and teachings, that was easy to follow despite how old the text is.

[Anna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some cool lines in here 👍

[Madison · Rating 2 out of 5]

Bored the shift out of me.

[meg (the.hidden.colophon) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this for Classical Greek Philosophy in Fall ‘22.