Acta Iadertina, Vol. 20 No. 2, 2023.
Review article
https://doi.org/10.15291/ai.4389
Pedagogical Discourse in the Novel “The Glass Bead Game” by Hermann Hesse
Matea MARCHINI
; City Library of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
Abstract
In Croatian scientific literature, there hasn’t been any published work
that comprehensively analyzes and interprets Hermann Hesse’s novel
The Glass Bead Game from a pedagogical standpoint. Therefore,
the primary aim of this paper is to delve into an analysis of the novel
through the lens of pedagogy, focusing particularly on the education,
learning experiences, and upbringing of the protagonist, Josef Knecht,
across different stages of his life.
During elementary school, the developmental phase initiates initial
interactions with the environment, shapes attitudes towards learning
and education, and significantly influences the formation of Knecht’s
personality. Moving into secondary education, this phase signifies maturity
and the confrontation of various challenges. It becomes a pivotal
period where Knecht discovers his own interests, establishes his
individuality, and solidifies his beliefs. The relationships he fosters with
teachers, friends and family during this phase play a fundamental role
in shaping his values and understanding of society.
As he advances into higher education, it becomes a time of intellectual
growth and an opportunity for exploring personal interests. Knecht’s
journey through this educational phase offers profound insights into his
creativity, acquisition of new knowledge, and the construction of his
identity. Beyond the formal aspects of education, the impact of relationships
with educators, friends, and family continues to mold his character.
By examining this developmental process through a pedagogical lens,
the analysis provides valuable insights into how different stages of education
have contributed to shaping Knecht’s personality and worldview.
Simultaneously, it scrutinizes the pivotal roles that teachers,
family, friends, and the overall school environment have played in
his formative years. This approach to interpretation and analysis also
serves to deepen our comprehension of how pedagogical theories function
in practical contexts, using the novel as a platform to illustrate
various pedagogical concepts and their influence on the maturation of
a young individual.
Keywords
education; learning; blildungsroman; upbringing
Hrčak ID:
313995
URI
Publication date:
7.2.2024.
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