Confucianism, a philosophy founded by the Chinese philosopher Confucius, had a significant impact on gender roles in ancient China. Confucius believed in the importance of social harmony and order, and this belief was reflected in his teachings on gender roles.

In Confucianism, the ideal society was one in which everyone fulfilled their proper roles and relationships. This included the roles of men and women, which were clearly defined and hierarchical. Men were seen as the head of the household and were responsible for providing for their families and upholding moral values. Women, on the other hand, were expected to fulfill their duties as wives and mothers, and their main role was to support and serve their husbands and children.

Confucianism also emphasized the concept of filial piety, which was the duty of children to respect and obey their parents. This duty was seen as the foundation of society, and it was believed that if children were obedient to their parents, they would also be obedient to their rulers and contribute to a harmonious society. This concept placed a strong emphasis on the role of women as mothers, as they were responsible for raising children who would uphold the values of filial piety.

One of the key teachings of Confucianism was the concept of the "Three Obediences and Four Virtues" for women. The Three Obediences referred to a woman's duty to obey her father as a daughter, her husband as a wife, and her son as a widow. The Four Virtues, on the other hand, were morality, physical charm, proper speech, and efficiency in household tasks. These teachings reinforced the subordinate role of women in society and placed a strong emphasis on their domestic duties.

However, it is important to note that while Confucianism did reinforce traditional gender roles, it also placed value on the education and moral development of both men and women. Confucius believed that education was essential for individuals to fulfill their roles and contribute to society. Women were encouraged to be educated in the domestic arts, such as cooking and sewing, but they were also allowed to receive a basic education in literature and music.

In conclusion, Confucianism had a significant impact on gender roles in ancient China. It reinforced traditional views of men as the head of the household and women as subordinate and focused on their domestic duties. However, it also placed value on the education and moral development of both men and women, and this emphasis on education helped to elevate the status of women in society.