Preparing
for the examination
It is necessary
to study many years in order to sit for the Civil Service exam.
The average age for taking the exam is 35 or 36. All have studied
since they were young boys. As such, we suggest that you enroll
your son in school at the earliest possible age. Be sure he receives
instruction in the following works for boys:
The Three
Character Primer, so that he may learn the written language
The Classic
of Filial Piety, so that he may be introduced to the basics
of moral and political philosophy
Admonitions
for the Young and Ignorant, to instruct him on upright behavior,
the correct approach to study, and other important guidance for
youth
After he completes his primary schooling, he must embark on the study of
calligraphy and composition, and the memorization of the classics of Chinese history and poetry. He must also master the principles of
Confucian thought, focusing chiefly on the
Five Classics, for these works are the basis of all political,
social, and moral wisdom.
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