Analyze how Confucianism impacted Emperor Wudi’s treatment of the nobility.

A. He gave power to people who passed Confucianism tests.

B. Nobles were punished less severely than peasants.

C. He increased the power of the nobility.

D. He made the nobles pass a civil service test.

1 answer

The correct answer is C. He increased the power of the nobility.

Confucianism emphasized a hierarchical social order, where individuals had specific roles and responsibilities based on their position in society. Emperor Wudi, as a follower of Confucianism, sought to strengthen and maintain social harmony by increasing the power and influence of the nobility.

One significant way Emperor Wudi increased the power of the nobility was by appointing them to important government positions. He believed that individuals who had passed Confucianism tests, which tested their knowledge of Confucian principles and ethics, were best suited to govern and make decisions on behalf of the state. By giving power to those who passed these tests, Emperor Wudi effectively elevated the nobility's status and authority.

In addition, Emperor Wudi also implemented the Imperial Examination system, which required individuals, including the nobility, to pass civil service tests to hold government positions. This system further reinforced the influence of the nobility, as passing these exams was often easier for members of the noble class who had received a more extensive education and had greater resources to prepare for the exams.

Therefore, by giving power to people who passed Confucianism tests and implementing the civil service exam system, Emperor Wudi increased the power of the nobility, as they were the ones who most often met the requirements and had the capability to pass these tests.