The Analects of Confucius (Wisehouse Classics Edition)

<p><strong>The Analects</strong> (literally: “Edited Conversations”) also known as the <em>Analects of Confucius</em> is a collection of sayings and ideas attributed to the Chinese philosopher <em>Confucius</em> and his contemporaries traditionally believed to have been compiled and written by <em>Confucius’</em> followers. It is believed to have been written during the <em>Warring States</em> period (475 BC–221 BC) and it achieved its final form during the mid-Han dynasty (206 BC–220 AD). By the early <em>Han</em> dynasty the <em>Analects</em> was considered merely a "commentary" on the Five Classics but the status of the <em>Analects</em> grew to be one of the central texts of Confucianism by the end of that dynasty.</p><p>During the late <em>Song</em> dynasty (960-1279) the importance of the <em>Analects</em> as a philosophy work was raised above that of the older Five Classics and it was recognized as one of the “Four Books”. The <em>Analects</em> has been one of the most widely read and studied books in China for the last 2000 years and continues to have a substantial influence on Chinese and East Asian thought and values today. They were very important for Confucianism and China’s overall morals.</p>