Comparison of the Social Level of Personality Education Thinking in Homeric Hymns and the Book of Songs

Abstract

Homeric Hymns and the Book of Songs are the earliest poetry in Greece and China, respectively. They not only showcase the aesthetic pursuits of their respective cultures but also contain profound ideas on personality education. This article attempts to compare the views on personality education in both works from a social perspective, exploring their similarities and differences, with the aim of enhancing mutual understanding between Eastern and Western cultures. This study establishes a comparative framework based on psychological personality theories, and then employs historical research methods, using the historical backgrounds of Homeric Hymns and the Book of Songs as references for interpreting the texts. It interprets the perspectives on personality education in society found in Homeric Hymns and the Book of Songs and applies critical thinking to them. This study found that both Homeric Hymns and the Book of Songs emphasize similar concepts of personality education at the social level, valuing kindness and propriety. They suggest that individuals should care for the group, fulfill their roles in society, be grateful for the benevolence of others, respect collective norms, and exercise consistent self-restraint. However, Homeric Hymns and the Book of Songs differ in their concepts of personality education at the social level: 1. Homeric Hymns place more emphasis on being outgoing and interacting with others, treating people fairly, whereas the Book of Songs, although caring for the group, is more reserved than Homeric Hymns and emphasizes harmony rather than fairness. 2. In the parent-child relationship, both Homeric Hymns and the Book of Songs mention parents' meticulous care and concern for their children. Homeric Hymns focus more on parents' love for their children, without particularly emphasizing filial piety, whereas the Book of Songs emphasizes more the children's filial duty towards their parents. 3. Homeric Hymns suggest that praising others can make them happy, earn their goodwill, and it is best to speak frankly without hiding anything. In contrast, the Book of Songs views people who use flattering words and deceptive expressions as eager to please the ruler, which causes the ruler to lose opportunities for self-improvement. It is better to remind others of their faults to foster moral character, though the manner of expression should be tactful and subtle. 4. Homeric Hymns and the Book of Songs differ significantly in their ideas of outstanding independence. Homeric Hymns emphasize excellence, autonomy, and self-determined decision-making, whereas the Book of Songs values obedience, meekness, and conformity.