The Pedagogical Implications of the Labyrinth in Comenius

Shinichi Sohma

The labyrinth is a key concept for re-evaluating the canonized discourse that Comenius is merely a representationalist. The pilgrim in The Labyrinth of the World and The Paradise of the Heart is destined to experiment within the world. Simultaneously, like a prisoner in Plato’s cave, he undergoes three transformative turns. This shows that the work is influenced by a critical reception of Platonism. As seen in Unum necessarium, the labyrinthization of the world caused by intellect remained a significant challenge for Comenius throughout his life. Cautious attention to the three implications read from the word labyrinth: experimentalist premises, Platonic demands, and the distance with intellectualism enables us to reassess his educational plan. This approach suggests that the status attributed to Comenius in intellectual history should be reconsidered.

Studia Comeniana et historica

MUSAEUM COMENII HUNNO BRODENSE

52

107-108

0323-2220