Final answer:
In 'The Good Earth' and historical Chinese culture, 'family and ancestral traditions' are most valued by Wang Lung and society, reflecting the core importance of family structure and Confucian ethics prevalent during the Tang dynasty.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the story The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck, what is highly valued by both Wang Lung and the Chinese culture is family and ancestral traditions. The context provided around Tang China indicates a deep respect for meritocracy but ultimately frames the importance of family, cultural traditions, and the patrilineal inheritance. Personal moral responsibility, as showcased by Han Yu's thoughts, is deeply entwined with the family-oriented Confucian ethical message. Moreover, the power of great clans indeed rested on their family and social connections, which facilitated their control over land and governmental influence. The emphasis on patrilineal ideology, the role of filial piety, and the importance of family ritual as a legitimate occupation all highlight the central importance of clan and family structure in Chinese culture during the Tang dynasty.