The discourse system of modern aesthetic education in China was formed in the historical context of enlightenment and salvation,through the assimilation and transformation of Chinese and Western aesthetics as well as related educational ideas.The objective was to "cultivate individuals and rejuvenate the nation",based on the core propositions of Wang Guowei’s "Futility of Utility",Cai Yuanpei’s "Aesthetic Education as a Substitute for Religion",and Zhu Guangqian’s "Life Artistry".Artistic education was the primary implementation strategy,with a focus on cultivating "sound character and improved life" as its value pursuit.It embodies the unique features of both theoretical and practical aspects,as well as locality and modernity while promoting developmental and public values.Its significant role in advancing enlightenment ideas,transforming national character,and reforming education cannot be overstated.Based on the existing literature,there is a paucity of research outcomes regarding the discourse system of aesthetic education,and lack comprehensiveness and systematicity.Therefore,this thesis aims to comprehensively and systematically examine the construction of the discourse system in modern aesthetic education from theoretical,practical,and value dimensions.Efforts are being made to reproduce the original appearance of modern aesthetic education,deepen our comprehension of its connotation,promote the innovation in its theories,facilitate the implementation,and provide historical reference for the reconstruction of the current discourse system.This thesis first analyzes the introduction of Western discourse on aesthetic education,the formation of local discourse,and the composition and characteristics of the modern discourse system in a comprehensive manner.Second,it examines the historical context surrounding the inception of the discourse system,exploring the ways in which politics,economics,culture,and art ecology have influenced the evolution of aesthetic education concepts,the creation of educational systems,and their popularization.Thirdly,this study delves into the theoretical dimension,examining how Cai Yuanpei,Wang Guowei,and Zhu Guangqian integrated Chinese and Western aesthetics and aesthetic education ideas.Specifically,it explores their proposal of utilitarian theories such as "Futility of Utility," "Aesthetic Education as a Substitute for Religion” and "Life Artistry." Through this integration,they have incorporated Schiller’s aesthetic education concept of human freedom into a key component of human nature,personality,and life transformation,thereby achieving the goal of enlightenment and salvation.Furthermore,this thesis also examines the impact of these theories on individuals and society,highlighting the importance of rational enlightenment and emotional liberation in promoting localized values.It also emphasizes the equal importance of both aesthetic and moral education.Lastly,from a contemporary perspective,this thesis summarizes the "gains and losses" experienced during the construction of the discourse system in China,adopting a dialectical approach to explore the underlying reasons. |