42 pages • 1 hour read
MenciusMencius
Nonfiction | Book | AdultA modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Index of Terms
Ch’i
The life force or energy present in every living thing, and in the universe more generally.
Rites
Rules or etiquette dictating how one should act in various situations and in relation to various social practices.
The Emperor
Similar to a king but ruling over all the provinces of China, or “the Empire.”
The People
A catch-all term Mencius uses to describe anyone not belonging to the class of rulers or the bureaucracy. Thus, this includes farmers, artisans, and merchants.
The Way
The harmonious social and moral order Mencius seeks to bring about, “the way” can also refer to an individual’s own accomplishment or pursuit of harmony and virtue.
The Sage
A seeker of wisdom and virtue, and adviser to kings and rulers.
The Gentleman
Someone who follows or seeks the way of virtuous conduct, but without necessarily being a sage.
