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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…” quote by Anatole France
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““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.””

Anatole France

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.

Key Takeaway

Teach willpower and moral judgment.

Themes

education will morality purpose

Mood

thoughtful inspirational

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • schools
  • parenting
  • personal growth
  • mentoring

Key Concepts

philosophy of education ethical development

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does it mean to teach will?
  • How can education balance enjoyment and duty?
A Different Perspective

May ignore practical constraints of curricula.

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