Final answer:
Ma learns the Daoist principle of wuwei or 'non-action,' suggesting the futility of trying to control or fully comprehend the world, a lesson that Wu Kang fails to grasp. This concept is paralleled in the stories of historic figures and parables within the texts, where understanding and humility lead to success, unlike the failures brought on by efforts to control or shift blame.
Step-by-step explanation:
The lesson that Ma learns, which Wu Kang fails to learn, revolves around the concept of wuwei, an important Daoist principle of 'non-action' or 'effortless action' that discourages exerting control over nature and the world. In contrast to Ma's realization of this principle, Wu Kang remains fixated on trying to understand and control, which leads to his failure. Similarly, the historical figures discussed, such as Han Yu and Liu Bang, represent different responses to the challenges of their times, with some understanding and adapting to the circumstances (as Ma does), while others, like Wu Kang, fail to adapt.
Lessons from History and Philosophy
Kim's failure in his history course is analogous to Wu Kang's plight; both blame external factors (the professor's dislike, the need to control) for their failures, rather than looking inward and recognizing personal responsibility and the limitations of control, as Ma learns to do. Han Yu's advocacy for a return to Confucian ethics, focusing on personal moral responsibility, also echoes Ma's realization over Wu Kang's misguided efforts.
Learning from Stories and Parables
These narratives, ranging from the historical accounts of Liu Bang to the fables involving characters like Gil-Dong and the mootang, convey the importance of adapting and understanding rather than controlling. They teach that success often comes not through sheer effort or control, but through a deeper understanding of one's limitations and the nature of the world, aligning with the concept of wuwei. This is the lesson learned by Ma, which Wu Kang does not grasp.