周敦颐
北宋
Zhou Dunyi was a Northern Song philosopher and writer, courtesy name Maoshu, literary name Lianxi. He is regarded as one of the foundational figures of Neo-Confucian thought and had an important influence on later thinkers such as Cheng Hao, Cheng Yi, and Zhu Xi. His works emphasize moral cultivation, metaphysical order, and the nature of virtue. Major writings include 'Explanation of the Diagram of the Supreme Ultimate,' 'Tongshu,' and 'On Loving the Lotus.' In 'On Loving the Lotus,' Zhou uses the lotus as an emblem of the Confucian gentleman, making it one of the most celebrated moral essays in classical Chinese prose.