Sensitiveness to Shame
The work explores the concept of shame as a distinguishing trait of moral character. It emphasizes that a true sense of shame is a reflection of one's worth and virtue, contrasting it with superficial qualities. The text asserts that while basic needs like food and clothing are universal, the sensitivity to shame sets individuals apart. A virtuous blush signifies integrity, while the absence of shame leads to a lack of respectability, making such individuals appear unseemly. The narrative highlights that those who feel shame for both their own and others' misdeeds embody true delicacy and moral depth. It suggests that the worthy would rather forgo power and wealth than engage in actions that would bring them shame. The work further posits that a refined sense of shame can drive individuals to extreme measures to avoid disgrace, indicating a profound commitment to honor. Conversely, those indifferent to shame are portrayed as lifeless, merely existing without genuine moral engagement. The text ultimately argues that losing one's sense of shame equates to losing one's humanity, reducing individuals to mere puppets devoid of true agency or dignity.
By Thiruvalluvar · First published 2000 · Genre: Philosophical, Poetry, Ethical Literature · 258 words
First lines
The blush of the worthy is for action that become them not: it is therefore quite different to the blush of the fair.
Food, clothing, and progeny are common unto all men: it is in the sensibility to shame that they differ from one another.
The body is the seat of all life: but a virtuous blush is the dwelling place of worth.
Is not the jewel of the worthy their sense of shame? And when a man hath it not, is not his swagger an affliction unto the eye to behold?
What this Textopian page supports
Sensitiveness to Shame is listed on Textopian as an essay by Thiruvalluvar, dated 2000 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Essay
- Author: Thiruvalluvar
- Date: 2000 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Philosophical, Poetry, Ethical Literature, Cultural Critique, Self-Help
- Length: 258 words
- Structure: 1 section, 10 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Similar titles
- Purity Of Action by Thiruvalluvar
- Abstaining From Deeds That Cause Trepidation by Thiruvalluvar
- Decision Of Character by Thiruvalluvar
- Sighing For The Absent One by Thiruvalluvar
- The Neglecting Of Instruction by Thiruvalluvar
- Human Nature And Conduct by John Dewey
Genres
- Philosophical — The text explores deep moral and ethical themes related to shame and virtue.
- Poetry — The work is written in a poetic style, utilizing metaphor and imagery to convey its messages.
- Ethical Literature — It discusses the importance of shame in moral conduct and personal integrity.
- Cultural Critique — The text reflects on societal values and the role of shame in different cultures.
Tags
Philosophy · Ethics · Morality · Shame · Guilt · Emotions · Psychology · Sociology · Cultural Studies · Indian Literature · Classical Texts · Tamil Literature