Final answer:
The first description of Hong Gil-Dong, who may be synonymous with Hsiang-ling, depicts him as a remarkable child who is beautiful, intelligent, and shows great promise despite challenging circumstances. His determination and rebellion against social constraints underscore his resilience and strong character.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first description we have of Hsiang-ling is not explicitly outlined in the provided texts. However, based on related narratives, if Hsiang-ling is identified with the character Hong Gil-Dong, then as a child, he was quite remarkable and beautiful. He was born to a concubine which caused discontent within the family, as his father would have preferred him to be a full son eligible to hold office. Despite his status, he was not content with being placed among slaves and not being allowed to call his parent "father." As he grew, he defied the role imposed on him by his birth and demonstrated extraordinary abilities, learning rapidly and showing a clear sense of independence and determination. His eventual rebellion against his prescribed social station and his dedication to overcoming his circumstances suggest a type of child who is resilient, adaptable, and remarkably intelligent.
Hong Gil-Dong's description as a remarkable boy marked by rapid growth and beauty, with an exceptional capacity for learning, provides insight into what type of child he was. He is depicted practicing the arts of a soldier, showing his ambition and desire to be respected despite his evil surroundings. His rebellious nature and unwillingness to concede to social norms reflect his strong-willed and revolutionary spirit.