Hours

• H(3-0)

• 	LEC 1	TR 12:30 - 13:45	SS 113
  	Notes: This course explores the early formation of Confucian thought. It covers the period of the Zhou dynasty (c.1111 to 221 BCE) with particular emphasis on thought of the two main Confucian thinkers of this period: Confucius (551-479 BCE) and Mencius (c.379-304 BCE). Major themes covered in the course include the influences on Confucian thinking originating in the earlier Zhou including the Western (c.1111-770 BCE), Qunqiu (c.722-453 BCE), and Warring States (453-221 BCE) periods; the formal beginnings of the Confucian school including the formation of a canon; and important concepts for each thinker. This period is significant for at least two reasons. First, the foundation for Confucian thought, the school that would dominate Chinese thinking, arguably even today, was laid; and, second, China experienced a breakthrough in intellectual thought, both in its creativity and diversity. This course will require students to demonstrate mastery of course content and to produce a research essay.