Ancient China: Who was Confucius?

Most people recognize his name and know that he is famous for having said something, but considering the long-lasting impact his teachings have had on the world, very few people know who Confucius really was, what he really said... and why.

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​Who was Confucius?

​https://youtu.be/wFt_VGG0kJU

Multiple Choice

Why did Confucius grow up in poverty?

• He was born into a family that had been subsistence-level farmers for generations

• His father died when he was young

• His parents gave most of their money to other needy families

• Everyone was poor except for the king

Multiple Choice

What best describes the political situation in China during the life of Confucius?

• A strong central government but with many poor and unhappy peasants

• Many states warring against each other for supremacy

• Civil war between the Three Kingdoms

• An emperor whose power was balanced by a Senate largely composed of hereditary aristocrats

Multiple Choice

What did Confucius think was the most important role of the ruler?

• To form a consensus among his advisors

• To develop a strong military and police force

• Provide clear laws that are impartially enforced

• To inspire others through his virtue so that they follow without coercion

Multiple Choice

Why did Confucius resign his position as an official in his home state of Lu?

• The ruler of Lu was too militaristic

• The ruler of Lu ignored his duties at court

• The ruler of Lu refused to put any of Confucius' disciples into office

• The ruler of Lu treated Confucius with insufficient respect

Multiple Choice

According to Confucius, how should a virtuous person avoid becoming frustrated or bitter in the face of adversity?

• He should take joy in learning

• He should take joy in music

• He should have faith that Heaven has a plan for the world

• All of the above

Multiple Choice

The collection of the sayings of Confucius is known in English as what?

• The Anabasis

• The Analects

• The Almagest

• The Anaglyptics