Famous Authors: Confucius

This overview of Confucius' biography and philosophy from the Famous Authors series contextualizes Confucius' life during the Zhou Dynasty, relaying the Chinese values of family and ancestor worship, history and record keeping, and spirituality. This time saw many intellectual developments and the concepts of morality and peace were emerging, and the program demonstrates the major influence Confucius and his Analects, a collection of epigrams, has had on Chinese culture. He focused on four major issues: helping people to be good, honorable, and responsible members of society; learning and education; filial duty; and ritual and music. The program illuminates many of his epigrams on these topics and distinguishes between Confucianism, which focuses on personal behavior, and other religions which depend on exclusive priesthoods and common beliefs.

Director: John Hoffman
Director: Malcolm Hossick