Homework Assignment #2

This exercise combines close reading with simple, focused analysis.  Below, there are two sets of passages from the Analects.  They seem to represent alternative versions of the same "lesson" that were originally preserved by different schools of Confucianism, and separately incorporated into the Analects.  Yet the variant schools seem, in the end, to have turned the lessons to somewhat different effect in their design of literary setting.  Your assignment -- one double-spaced typed page only -- is to note the differences in each set, and explain what is significant about them.  Ask yourself what would be at stake if the editors of the Analects had selected to use only one version of each -- what distinct ideas that make each passage unique, despite resemblances, would have been lost.  (You should look up these passages in the translation; the notes may provide helpful background information.)

You don't have much space, so be as brief as possible -- note the differences, and try to make your statement of the implications of the differences quick and clear.  The assignment is due Wednesday, September 21.

Set 1

4.15  The Master said, “Shen, a single thread runs through my dao.”

          Master Zeng said, “Yes.”

          The Master went out, and the other disciples asked, “What did he mean?”

          Master Zeng said, “The Master’s dao is nothing other than loyalty and reciprocity.”

15.3  The Master said, “Si!  Do you take me for one who studies a great deal and remembers it?”

          Zigong replied, “Yes. Is it not so?”

          “It is not. I link all on a single thread.”

Set 2

7.35  The Master fell ill.  Zilu requested permission to offer prayers.  The Master said, “Is there precedent for this?”  Zilu answered, “There is.  In the liturgy it says, ‘Pray to the spirits above and below.’”

          The Master said, “My prayers are longstanding.”

9.12  The Master fell ill.  Zilu had the disciples act towards him as though they were retainers.  When the illness eased, the Master said, “Long has You practiced this deception!  To have no retainers and pretend to have them, whom do I deceive?  Do I deceive Tian?  And moreover, rather than die in the hands of retainers, would I not prefer to die in your hands, my friends?  Even though I may receive no great funeral, would I be dying by the side of the road?”