Visual Enlightenment and Image Education: A Study of Image Narration and the Reconstruction of National Character in Picture Primers of the Republican Era—Based on the Digital Compilation of Books Collected by Anhui University

The Republican era marked a pivotal period of societal transition in China, moving from tradition to modernity. As a crucial medium for children's education, the illustrated primers of the time reflected not only the evolution of educational philosophies but also served as a visual manifestation of the reshaping of national identity. This study examines eight illustrated primers from the Republican era, preserved at Anhui University. Employing digital methodologies and image narrative theory, it investigates how images, through symbolic systems and the integration of text and visuals, contributed to the construction of national identity. The research reveals that during this period of societal transformation, these primers utilized advancements in printing technology to translate traditional ethics and modern values into accessible visual symbols, thereby establishing a path of "visual enlightenment" in education. Through the implicit influence of image narratives, these primers instilled cultural values within children's cognitive frameworks, achieving the goal of reshaping national identity. In the contemporary context, the integration of digital technology offers new possibilities for children's enlightenment education, necessitating the use of cross-media narratives and interactive design to enhance educational outcomes. Keywords: Republican-era primers，digitization，national identity reconstruction，visual enlightenment DOI: 10.7176/RHSS/15-3-04 Publication date: April 28th 2025