日本の修身書における役割考察- 庶民出身の偉人を中心に -

Abstract

This study examines characters from commoner backgrounds in Japanese government self-cultivation textbooks from the first edition in 1904 to the fifth edition in 1941. The focus is on understanding the roles assigned to commoner figures in these self-cultivation textbooks and their significance. In self-cultivation textbooks, although characters with high recognition such as the Emperor and historically prominent figures comprise a significant portion of the cast, it is noteworthy that individuals from commoner backgrounds also make up a considerable proportion. Considering the scale of achievements and recognition, it is conceivable that the deliberate inclusion of figures from commoner backgrounds in self-cultivation textbooks, despite the availability of individuals representing Japan or those associated with the imperial family, was intentional. This study classifies figures from commoner backgrounds appearing in the curriculum based on the content of the lessons into three categories: self-sufficiency and self-employment, public service, and overseas experiences. By investigating common characteristics within each category, the research delves deeply into the government's intent in featuring commoner-origin figures and the educational aspects aimed at children during that time.