The Tradition of Paternal Education in Jia’s Mansion in The Dream of the Red Chamber
Abstract
This study examines the transmission and transformation of paternal educational traditions within the Jia family as portrayed in The Dream of the Red Chamber. By focusing on three generations—Jia Daishan, Jia Zheng, and Jia Baoyu—the research analyzes the evolution of parenting models, intergenerational dynamics, and conflicts within the framework of Confucian values and late feudal Chinese society. Through textual analysis, comparative study, and sociocultural contextualization, the findings reveal that while Jia Zheng’s strict adherence to Confucian ideals embodies the preservation of traditional values, Baoyu’s resistance underscores the growing tension between individual aspirations and established norms. The study concludes that paternal education functions both as a medium for transmitting cultural values and as a source of conflict, illustrating the intricate interplay between tradition and individuality. This analysis highlights the importance of balancing cultural heritage and personal development in the face of societal change.
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