The master always keeps a piece of learning--that is to…
““The master always keeps a piece of learning--that is to say, a piece of the student's ignorance--up his sleeve. I understood that, says the satisfied student. You think so, corrects the master. in fact, there's a difficulty here that I've been sparing you until now. We will explain it when we get to the corresponding lesson. What does this mean? asks the curious student. I could tell you, responds the master, but it would be premature: you wouldn't understand at all. It will be explained to you next year. The master is always a length ahead of the student, who always feels that in order to go farther he must have another master, supplementary explications. Thus does the triumphant Achilles drag Hector's corpse, attached to his chariot, around the city of Troy.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The master deliberately maintains a gap of ignorance in the student to keep the learning process ongoing and challenging.
In simple terms: Masters keep some unknowns to push students forward.
Key Takeaway
Embrace the unknown as a catalyst for growth.
Themes
education
learning
authority
humility
Mood
reflective
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- classroom teaching
- mentor-ment
- self‑directed study
- skill acquisition
Key Concepts
Pedagogy
Socratic method
Dialectic
Questions to Reflect On
- How can a teacher balance mystery and clarity?
- What unknowns can you keep to stay curious?
A Different Perspective
If the gap is too large, students may feel discouraged rather than motivated.