The Analects: A Contemporary Translation

The Analects of Confucius has stood as the bedrock of Chinese culture for over 2,500 years, shaping the trajectory of human history in ways unmatched by nearly any other secular philosophy. But until now, translations of this compendium of Confucian wisdom have forced women–half of humanity–into the philosophical background. Erin M. Cline boldly challenges this legacy, breathing new life into this monumental work with a fresh and accessible translation, presenting not only an innovative thematic structure but also a vital reinterpretation for modern readers. By employing gender-neutral language throughout, guided by the text itself, Cline dismantles patriarchal misinterpretations of The Analects, and in the process reveals a Confucius who speaks to everyone. This ground-breaking translation will redefine Confucian thought for a new generation of readers in English.