Chinese mythology, folktales, and literature
This excerpt quotes Confucius’ line: human natures are similar at birth, yet diverge greatly through habits and surroundings. Unlike Mencius or Xunzi’s fixed human-nature theories, it highlights nature’s plasticity, laying the foundation for equal, universal Confucian education and moral cultivation.
When Confucius fell seriously ill, Zilu arranged for his disciples to act as household ministers, preparing to conduct funeral rites befitting a high official. After Confucius recovered and learned what had happened, he said, “It’s been a long time since Zilu started practicing deceit! I have no ministers, yet he pretends I do. Whom…
The Grand Steward asked Zigong, “Is your Master a sage? How is it that he possesses so many talents?” Zigong replied, “Heaven surely destined him to become a sage, and furthermore endowed him with diverse abilities.” When Confucius heard this, he said, “Does the Grand Steward really understand me? In my youth I was…
In ancient China, a person’s name typically consisted of three parts: family name, given name, and courtesy name (or style name). Some individuals also had “clan name” or “pseudonym” (usually self-given titles). This article will briefly introduce the composition and characteristics of ancient Chinese names, using examples from Romance of the Three Kingdoms.
If an ordinary person secretly stores up virtue and does charitable deeds he is as influential as a duke or minister despite his lack of fame and position.