Consideration of the Courtesy Education at the Dining Table in the Books of Social Norms of Joseon Dynasty Era

Abstract

We researched the modern meanings of traditional dining table courtesy education and its correlation with the main values of contemporary personality education based on dining table courtesy education stated in the social norms texts of the Joseon dynasty. Among the social norms of the Joseon dynasty, we chose Sohak, Naehun, Dongmongsuji, Seonghakjibyo, Gyeongmongyogyeol, Jeungbosallimgyeongje, Sasojeol, and Koamgahoon for research. As a result of our research on these documents and books, the modern meanings of the courtesy education at the dining table can be summarized as follow. First, the courtesy education has table manners appropriate for the development level of early children. Second, it teaches right-handed dining manners that match the features of Korean food culture. Third, it has the self-discipline and the values of community life, sharing, solicitude, and communication. Fourth, parents and grandparents are involved in the education. Fifth, it has the core values of modern personality education: manners, filial piety, respect, solicitude, communication, cooperation, and responsibility. Future courtesy education at the dining table should include practical education programs that can consolidate the bond of sympathy between the home, school, and society, and can improve its practice; in addition, to expand the opportunities for education, proactive social support is demanded.