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Of Studies (Analysis)
Of Studies (Analysis)
Of Studies (Analysis)
“Of Studies” is one of the most quoted essays of Sir Francis Bacon. He has
analyzed the importance of studies; therefore, in this essay, he convinces his
readers to know its vitality. He does not only talk about bookish knowledge but
also demonstrates the importance of experience; without experience, the
studies cannot help a person, means Sir Francis Bacon. Moreover, in his eyes,
studies and education are two separate things. However, he agrees that
education is the name of studying books and experiences of life. He answers
some common questions that arise in every common mind. For instance, he
answers why we should read books; what are the impacts of studies in one’s life;
why study without experience is useless; and many other such like questions.
However, in next lines, he has explained the word “delight” while saying, “their
chief use for delight, is in privateness and retiring”. Hence, only words are
different but the purpose is same i.e. entertainment.
Ornaments:
The second purpose that studies serve is “ornaments”. A person, after learning
from books, can present himself in a good manner. Studies also help a person
learn etiquettes. His societal impression is improved and he becomes wise in the
eyes of people. However, Bacon has used only one word to explain, “ornament”
i.e. “discourse”. Thereby, studies increase the speaking power of a person but
the word “discourse” also needs explanation. It has many meanings; discourse
has different types; romantic, professional, religious, motivational, debate etc.
Nevertheless, considering in view the worldly approach of the author, he may
have used it as a professional speaking power or perhaps, he is talking about
impressive discourse in every field of life whether it is profession, religion or
romance.
“the natural abilities are like natural plants, that need proyning by study; and
studies themselves do give forth directions too much at large, except they be
bounded in by experience.”
Sir Francis Bacon
Hence, studies show a person thousands of paths to walk but experience helps
choosing the right one. Additionally, different types of men see studies
differently; some people do not give studies any value; some appreciate them;
but wise are those, who perfectly use them.
Thus, a person needs to study the relevant subject as per his choice or
requirement. If he wants wisdom, history can help him. If he wants imaginative
powers, his concern should be poetry. Similarly, mathematics, philosophy, and
logic serve their specific purposes. In Bacon’s eyes, a person can improve himself
as much as he can; he just needs to focus. He actually wants to say that, “reading
is to the mind what exercise is to the body”. With body, the mind also needs
exercise; therefore, every person needs to do an exercise of the mind; he can do
it by studying books.