The Great Learning and The Doctrine of the Mean: Translation, Commentary, and Notes

Abstract

Along with the Analects and Mencius, the Great Learning and Doctrine of the Mean comprise the traditional Confucian canon known as the "Four Books," which was the educational core of traditional China. These two short texts served as summary guides to Confucian self-cultivation, and were memorized by children at the first satge of education. This scholarly translation is intended for both specialists and general readers. It primarily aims to elucidate the intellectual significance of individual passages and to highlight the way philosophical themes interact within the two texts. It is intended to provide open-access online materials, to be freely used or modified by individuals or by teachers employing them in a not-for-profit context.