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Prompt: On the genuine character of a Confucian scholar in A Stroll Along the Sandy Beach (or the Enthusiastic Ode)
Sample essay analyzing the genuine character of a Confucian scholar in the Enthusiastic Ode and A Stroll Along the Sandy Beach.
Essay:
When mentioning Cao Bá Quát, one often associates him with two profoundly beautiful words: talent and charisma. Throughout his life as a Confucian scholar, he consistently strived to rise above conservative and outdated ideologies to seek a brighter path, breaking free from the mediocrity of ritualistic Confucianism. Cao Bá Quát epitomized the presence of a true scholar in contemporary society; indeed, he never led an ordinary life. With a broad vision and avant-garde awareness, he carved out a bold and magnanimous path for himself, which is vividly depicted in his poetry and prose. One of the most exemplary instances is his work, the Short Journey's Ode.
Cao Bá Quát hailed from a Confucian family with a long-standing tradition of scholarship. Therefore, from a young age, he diligently pursued education to honor his ancestors. However, his innate disposition leaned towards freedom and openness. Consequently, his essays often contained unconventional ideas unsuitable for the feudal regime of the time, resulting in his failure to achieve high ranks. This demonstrated his courage to challenge the era and confront deep-rooted beliefs. Moreover, Cao Bá Quát possessed tremendous resilience; he traveled long distances to participate in examinations in Hue nine times, although he did not succeed. From these experiences, he gained profound insights, realizing that his long-pursued aspirations were futile, mere mediocrity. This underscored his astute perception, which many ancient scholars failed to grasp, as they persisted in the obscure path of scholarship. Cao Bá Quát harbored no desire for fame or fortune; he even derided worldly success, likening those who pursued it to 'street peddlers of fame.' Clearly, only a liberated soul could conceive such fresh perspectives, for who does not covet fame? In conclusion, Cao Bá Quát truly embodied the essence of a genuine Confucian scholar.
The concept of a genuine Confucian scholar lies in their patriotic spirit and altruistic desire to serve the nation and the people. For them, official positions are steps closer to practicing benevolence, contributing to the country and its people, rather than avenues for personal gain or satisfying mundane desires. Moreover, integrity towards the Confucian scholars is perpetually revered, and in every circumstance, it must be upheld, avoiding corruption and resisting temptation. These are the true qualifications of a genuine Confucian scholar.
