Mencius (Penguin Classics)
Irene Bloom is a sensitive and well-trained scholar. Her translation ofMencius, one of the most influential philosophical works ever written in China, marks an important step forward for Asian and Confucian studies.(Harold D. Roth, professor of religious and East Asian studies and director, Contemplative Studies Initiative, Brown University)Irene Bloom's book is an exemplification of the best Sinological scholarship. Its interpretive brilliance will be a source of inspiration for years to come.(Tu Weiming, Distinguished Professor of Philosophy, Peking University, and senior research fellow, Harvard University)WhileMenciusmay be generally more 'accessible' when compared with other classical Chinese texts, as P. J. Ivanhoe observes, it is still a challenge to capture in translation the flavor of its fine prose and the force of its arguments. This, I think, is precisely what Bloom sets out to do, and we are richly rewarded for her effort. Her translation is eminently reliable and has a graceful directness and simplicity. Ivanhoe's introduction helpfully highlights key ethical, political, and religious views and relates them to relevant contemporary philosophical debates. This book will be widely used and consulted by scholars.(Alan K. L. Chan, National University of Singapore)A tremendous accomplishment that crowns Bloom's exemplary career.... Essential.(Choice)--This text refers to theHardcoveredition.