Abstract
“Shijing”(詩經) is divided into “Guofeng” (國風), “Ya” (雅) and “Song” (頌). Among them, the content of “Guofeng” best matches the temperament of ordinary people, and the image of the Gentleman is different from that in “Ya” or “Song.” This thesis, focused on the Gentleman in “Guofeng,” discusses the makeup and manifestations of this image. This thesis consists of three parts encompassing the illustration of the Gentleman's positive image, the criticism of his negative image, and his role in interhuman relationships. The first two parts analyze the positive and the negative images of Gentleman, considering how poets portray these two types of Gentleman, as well as the import behind their decisions.The third part examines the gentleman's different relations ‐‐ with his family, with the ruler or the subject, and his friends ‐‐ and reflects on the unique role of the Gentleman. Finally, based on the discussion in the three parts, this thesis concludes with the overall significance of the Gentleman in “Guofeng.”