Propriety

Definition

Propriety refers to the adherence to established norms, customs, and moral standards within a society. It encompasses behaviors and practices deemed appropriate and respectable, reflecting the values and beliefs held by a community. In historical contexts, especially within cultural and philosophical movements, propriety plays a crucial role in shaping interpersonal relationships and societal structures.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Propriety was central to Neo-Confucianism, which emphasized moral integrity and social harmony as key virtues for individuals in society.
2. In the context of ukiyo-e art, propriety can be seen in the portrayal of characters engaging in culturally accepted behaviors, highlighting societal values.
3. The concept of propriety influenced the social hierarchies in Edo period Japan, dictating how individuals from different classes interacted with one another.
4. Propriety extends beyond mere manners; it shapes identity and belonging within a community by reinforcing expected behaviors.
5. In literature from this era, propriety often serves as a theme, where characters face dilemmas between personal desires and societal expectations.

Review Questions

• How did the concept of propriety influence individual behavior during the Neo-Confucian period?
  • During the Neo-Confucian period, propriety played a significant role in shaping individual behavior by establishing clear guidelines for moral conduct and social interactions. Individuals were expected to adhere to the principles of propriety, which included respect for authority, filial piety, and maintaining harmonious relationships with others. This emphasis on proper behavior not only reinforced social hierarchies but also contributed to the overall stability and cohesion of society.
• Discuss the role of propriety in ukiyo-e artworks and how it reflects societal values.
  • In ukiyo-e artworks, propriety is often depicted through scenes that showcase culturally accepted behaviors and interactions among different classes. These artworks served as a reflection of societal values, emphasizing the importance of maintaining decorum in both public and private life. The representation of proper conduct within these artworks illustrates how artists responded to and reinforced the norms of their time, providing insight into the ideals of beauty, behavior, and social status prevalent in Edo period Japan.
• Evaluate how the strictures of propriety shaped social hierarchies in Edo period Japan and their lasting impact on modern Japanese culture.
  • The strictures of propriety in Edo period Japan were instrumental in shaping social hierarchies, dictating interactions between different classes and reinforcing the importance of status. The emphasis on proper behavior established clear boundaries that governed relationships between samurai, merchants, artisans, and farmers. These norms created a framework that not only defined social roles but also influenced contemporary Japanese culture by instilling values of respect, harmony, and social responsibility that continue to resonate in modern society.

Related terms

Ritual: A ceremonial act or series of acts performed in a prescribed order, often reflecting cultural norms and values.

Etiquette: The customary code of polite behavior in society or among members of a particular profession or group.

Virtue: Moral excellence and righteousness; behaviors and traits that are considered good and desirable in a person.