What did Matthew Arnold imply by the term “Hebraism” in his Culture and Anarchy?
Correct Answer :
Moral education
Solution :
The correct option is Moral education.
In his famous work Culture and Anarchy (1869), Matthew Arnold contrasts two opposing forces that shape human life and history: "Hebraism" and "Hellenism."
Hellenism represents the spirit of "sweetness and light," which is characterized by a desire to see things as they really are, spontaneous play of consciousness, and intellectual curiosity. It values intellectual autonomy, aesthetics, and a rational outlook.
In contrast, Hebraism emphasizes strictness of conscience, duty, self-control, and moral conduct. Arnold associates Hebraism with the development of moral character and obedience to rules. The primary concern of Hebraism is action and moral practice rather than pure intellectual contemplation. Therefore, the term "Hebraism" in Arnold's context is best characterized by moral education and ethical discipline.
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