literati culture

Literati culture refers to the tradition of scholarly, artistic, and philosophical pursuits among educated elites, often emphasizing refinement, personal expression, and intellectual achievement. Originating in ancient China, it embodied the values of Confucian learning, calligraphy, poetry, and painting, shaping a social class deeply engaged in cultural refinement. Throughout history, literati culture has been associated with cultivating moral character, poetic expression, and artistic mastery, often serving as a means of social status and self-cultivation. It highlights the importance placed on education, artistic skill, and moral integrity within certain scholarly communities.