Distinguishing Pearls from Fish Eyes: The Branch Lineage Genealogies of the Descendants of Confucius

Authors

Christopher Agnew, University of DaytonFollow

Files

Description

This paper examines the form and production of genealogies compiled by local branch-lineages of the descendants of Confucius, the Kongs. It highlights the way the Kongs in Qufu, the hometown of Confucius and the center of Kong power, exercised control over branch-lineage formation through the collection and approval of written genealogies. The paper pays particular attention to the crucial function of manuscripts in the compilation, drafting, and circulation of genealogical knowledge. Depending on the relationship between branch-lineages and the Kong ducal center, manuscript genealogies adopted different forms, either to align with norms established in Qufu, or to articulate alternative lineage identities not subservient to the Kong lineage hierarchy.

ISBN

9783111382876

Publication Date

2025

Publication Source

Genealogical Manuscripts in Cross-Cultural Perspective

Publisher

De Gruyter

Disciplines

Asian History | History

Comments

Open Access. © 2025 the author(s), published by De Gruyter. This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License. https://doi.org/10.1515/9783111382876-005

Recommended Citation

Agnew, Christopher, "Distinguishing Pearls from Fish Eyes: The Branch Lineage Genealogies of the Descendants of Confucius" (2025). Books and Book Chapters by University of Dayton Faculty. 155.
https://ecommons.udayton.edu/books/155