Of Studies by Sir Francis Bacon (Summary)

Of Studies

by Sir Francis Bacon

(Summary)

  

The essay, ‘Of Studies’ by Sir Francis Bacon is the first in a series of ten essays published in 1597. Later, it was revised in 1612 with changes in some vocabulary, addition of some more sentences and ideas.

This essay is considered Bacon's masterpiece with Latin vocabulary, fresh and new ideas, logical and relevant topics, and knowledge of the world. For these reasons, the essay is still popular among individuals of all ages. The essay informs readers about the benefits and uses of study in one’s life.

Bacon's essay ‘Of Studies’ deals with the benefits of studies for individuals in their daily lives. From reading books to writing, study plays an important role in a man's life, making him learned, witty and experienced.

This essay is rich in intellectual knowledge, practical approach and practical knowledge; Therefore, it is considered to be the most beneficial essay for students and young persons. Although the essay is devoid of any emotions and colorful expressions, it is; Nevertheless, a wonderful attempt to teach readers about the importance of studying.

Highlighting the importance of studies, Bacon's essay shows the role, studies play in a person's daily life. For Bacon, study has always related to the application of knowledge in practical life. At the beginning of his essay, Bacon described the three main objectives of the study, including studies, to attain happiness, studies undertaken to shape one's life, and studies to improve one's ability.

The author is of the belief that only learned and educated men can execute plans effectively, manage their daily affairs with expertise and lead a healthy and stable life. He further states that reading makes a complete human being; conference leads to a ready man while writing makes a precise man.

Highlighting the advantages and usefulness of studies, Bacon also brought out some demerits of the study, as he felt that studying for a prolonged period of time may lead to laziness. He also condemns the act of studying from books without learning from nature. The essay, Of Studies further cites the benefits of the study as a medicine for the defects of the human mind and as a source of enhancing one's intelligence.

Discussing the importance of study in a person's life, the essayist informs his readers about the benefits of reading good books. For Bacon, some books are to taste only; Others are for swallowing, while some books are for chewing and digesting properly. Therefore, readers should choose wisely before studying any book to increase their knowledge about the world.

Bacon concludes his essay by suggesting that study helps a person, to overcome the defects of his/her mind because every problem of the human mind has special significance for the individual and the world.