Confucianism had a significant influence on Emperor Wudi's treatment of the nobility, particularly in his attempt to build a more meritocratic government and reduce the absolute power of the aristocratic class. The most accurate response from the options provided is:
He gave power to people who passed Confucianism tests.
By emphasizing merit-based appointments, Emperor Wudi sought to establish a bureaucracy filled with educated officials who were well-versed in Confucian principles, rather than relying solely on the hereditary privileges of the aristocracy. This shift aimed to promote loyalty and capability in governance, reflecting the Confucian ideal that leaders should be virtuous and knowledgeable. Thus, while the nobility still retained some privileges, the Confucian focus on education and merit shifted power dynamics in governance, enabling a broader selection of officials from various backgrounds, including those who might not be part of the traditional aristocracy.
The other options, such as punishing nobles less severely than peasants or increasing the power of the nobility, do not accurately represent the Confucian ideals that Wudi was promoting. Instead, Wudi's reforms through the promotion of civil service exams and meritocracy are the most directly indicative of Confucian influence on his policies regarding the nobility.