This series consists in three videos and a written guide. Although the three tapes are interrelated to one another in terms of themes and the importance of the Confucian tradition, they can be divided into two groups. The first tape
The Confucian Tradition can be used as a separate, independent teaching aid for a general introduction to the origin and the major themes and key concepts of Confucianism. This tape is narrated by Robert Oxnam with explanations by William de Bary, Myron Cohen, and Irene Bloom, all scholars on Chinese philosophy and culture. The list of concepts and issues include the Mandate of Heaven (
tianming), the "nobleman" (
junzi), filial piety (
xiao), humanity (
ren), and "respect for ritual" (
li). The speakers present the Confucian tradition both in terms of its historical origin and its change and impact on Chinese culture. It touches upon the revival of Confucianism in the tenth century in the form of Neo-Confucianism and iconoclastic attack on it during the early twentieth century. It ends with Irene Bloom's reference to the universal appeal of Confucius' remark: "By nature men are pretty much alike; it is learning and practice that set them apart," which was adopted by UNESCO in the 1950s.
The two tapes on Chinese literature constitute an inseparable unit insofar as the history of Chinese poetry is concerned. They feature Chinese literature experts like Steven Owen, David D.W. Wong, Paul Rouzer, and Marcia Wagner. The first part covers poetry in the Book of Songs, the poetry of Wang Can and Tao Qian. The second part focuses on Tang poetry, beginning with the poetry of Wang Wei. The poetry of Li Bo and Du Fu receive detailed discussion both in terms of their historical context and their literary achievements. Poems are read first in Chinese to be replaced by English. They are analyzed for both its Confucian and non-Confucian themes and literary techniques. But the tapes say very little after the poetry of Li Qingzhao, a woman poet of the Song dynasty.
These tapes succeed in presenting a very organized introduction to the major themes and key concepts of Confucianism. Many of the themes and values presented in the first tape are carefully highlighted in the discussion of the poetry in the other two tapes. It is clear to the viewers that the Confucian tradition did have a great impact on Chinese poetry. However, the analysis of the poetry of Tao Qian, Wang Wei and Li Bo touches on Buddhism and Taoism. From this perspective, the intellectual framework in which the materials are presented is much broader than Confucianism.
For classes on Chinese culture, thought, and literature at the college and high school level, this series provides a clear, balanced, and well-organized introduction to the Confucian tradition and its impact on Chinese poetry. The written guide is especially useful for teachers. It contains the video scripts, questions for student viewers, and selected passages and poetry which can be photocopied for discussion and written exercises.
