The Confucian Four Books for Women

This volume brings the first English translation of the Confucian classics, Four Books for Women, to the English-speaking world with extensive commentary by the compiler, Wang Xiang, and annotations by the translator. As a female counterpart to the famous Sishu (Four Books) compiled by Zhu Xi, Wang Xiang's N sishu was an indispensable primer for women's education from its publication in the 16th century until the beginning of the 20th century. This work provides an invaluable look at the long-standing history and evolution of Chinese women's writing, education, identity, and philosophical discourse, along with their struggles and triumphs, across the millenniums and numerous Chinese dynasties.