Morality

Definition

Morality refers to the principles and values that guide individuals in determining what is right and wrong. It shapes the characters and actions of individuals, influencing their decisions and ethical considerations. In literature, morality often serves as a central theme, prompting readers to reflect on ethical dilemmas and the human condition.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Akutagawa Ryunosuke's works often explore complex moral questions, reflecting the struggles of individuals faced with ethical dilemmas.
2. In stories like 'Rashomon,' morality is depicted as subjective, showcasing how different characters perceive right and wrong based on their own experiences.
3. Akutagawa’s characters frequently wrestle with guilt, shame, and the consequences of their actions, highlighting the impact of personal morality on human behavior.
4. The author's interest in Buddhism and its teachings influences his portrayal of morality, emphasizing concepts like compassion and the impermanence of life.
5. Akutagawa's literary style blends psychological depth with moral inquiry, inviting readers to question their own values and beliefs about right and wrong.

Review Questions

• How does Akutagawa's exploration of morality contribute to character development in his stories?
  • Akutagawa uses morality as a lens through which his characters are developed, often showcasing their internal conflicts and ethical struggles. These moral dilemmas force characters to confront their beliefs and choices, leading to significant personal growth or downfall. By presenting morally complex situations, Akutagawa invites readers to empathize with characters and consider how their own moral choices shape their identities.
• Analyze how Akutagawa's portrayal of subjective morality in works like 'Rashomon' challenges traditional notions of right and wrong.
  • 'Rashomon' presents multiple perspectives on a single event, illustrating how subjective experiences shape one's understanding of morality. This narrative structure challenges the idea that there is an absolute truth regarding right and wrong, emphasizing instead that morality can be fluid and context-dependent. Akutagawa’s approach compels readers to reflect on the complexities of human behavior and the factors influencing moral judgment.
• Evaluate the role of cultural and philosophical influences on Akutagawa's conception of morality in his literature.
  • Akutagawa’s conception of morality is deeply influenced by cultural and philosophical elements such as Buddhism and Western existential thought. His works often reflect Buddhist ideas about compassion and the transitory nature of life, which complicate traditional moral frameworks. Additionally, existentialist themes challenge characters to confront their freedom and responsibility in making ethical choices. This blend of influences creates a rich tapestry for exploring morality in Akutagawa’s stories, prompting readers to engage with complex moral questions that resonate across cultures.

Related terms

Ethics: A branch of philosophy that involves systematizing, defending, and recommending concepts of right and wrong behavior.

Dilemma: A situation in which a difficult choice must be made between two or more alternatives, often involving moral or ethical considerations.

Existentialism: A philosophical movement that focuses on individual existence, freedom, and choice, emphasizing the responsibility of individuals to make moral decisions in an indifferent or chaotic universe.