Alas!' replied Maître Mouche, 'she must be trained to take…
““Alas!' replied Maître Mouche, 'she must be trained to take her part in the struggle of life. One does not come into this world simply to amuse oneself, and to do just what one pleases.' 'One comes into this world,' I responded, rather warmly, 'to enjoy what is beautiful and what is good, and to do as one pleases, when the things one wants to do are noble, intelligent, and generous. An education which does not cultivate the will, is an education that depraves the mind. It is a teacher's duty to teach the pupil how to will.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Education must develop will and moral purpose, not just amuse; true learning cultivates noble, intelligent, generous actions.
In simple terms: Education should shape will and virtue.
Teach willpower and moral judgment.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- schools
- parenting
- personal growth
- mentoring
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What does it mean to teach will?
- How can education balance enjoyment and duty?
May ignore practical constraints of curricula.