ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book begins by clarifying definitions of what character and character formation mean and a number of models are outlined to help us understand how character formation has operated in different contexts. It reviews the Greek and Roman heritage of character formation and examines the continuation of this heritage through the Christian Middle Ages. The chapter looks at the Scottish Enlightenment views of character formation as a bridge to the modern world. It considers character formation developments in the 20th century and a review of contemporary policy issues and controversial themes in character formation. The book ends with a conclusion and appendices which contain a valuable series of illustrations of the teaching materials used in character formation found in general Western culture and schooling from the time of Aristotle to the present.
