The Two Races of Men by Charles Lamb (Summary & Analysis)

 

The Two Races of Men

by Charles Lamb

(Summary & Analysis) 

Charles Lamb (1775-1834) was an English essayist, poet, and critic. He is best known for his witty and engaging essays, which often combined personal anecdotes with literary criticism and social commentary. Lamb was born in London and spent much of his life there. He worked as a clerk at the East India Company, but his true passion lay in writing.

Lamb's essays were published under the pseudonym "Elia" and were highly regarded for their distinct style and charm. His essays covered a wide range of topics, including literature, art, philosophy, and everyday life. Lamb's writing showcased his deep knowledge of English literature and his ability to connect with readers through his wit and warmth.

In addition to his essays, Lamb also wrote poems and plays. His poetry reflected his melancholic and introspective nature, often exploring themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human emotions. Lamb's plays, on the other hand, were more lighthearted and showcased his talent for comedy.

Although Lamb achieved some recognition during his lifetime, his work gained greater appreciation and popularity in the years following his death. He has since been recognized as one of the greatest essayists in the English language, admired for his unique perspective, insightful observations, and engaging prose style.

Summary

In the essay "The Two Races of Men" by Charles Lamb, the author discusses the human species as being composed of two distinct races: the men who borrow and the men who lend. According to Lamb, these classifications are more fundamental than distinctions based on race or nationality. He argues that the borrowers, whom he designates as the superior race, possess certain qualities such as figure, port, and instinctive sovereignty, while the lenders are born in a state of degradation.

Lamb describes the carefree nature of borrowers, their reliance on Providence, and their disregard for money and possessions. He portrays them as having a generous and open manner, simplifying the notions of ownership and community. Borrowers, in Lamb's view, exhibit a cheerful and voluntary approach to extracting resources from others. They are portrayed as having a natural charm and an ability to extract loans from people with a smile.

The essay then transitions to a personal reflection prompted by the death of Lamb's friend, Ralph Bigod. Bigod is described as a descendant of noble ancestors who, in a noble and disinterested manner, dissipated his wealth and embraced a life of borrowing. Lamb recounts their adventures together, where Bigod would meet various individuals who had previously lent him money, referring to them as his tributaries or contributors to his exchequer.

Lamb also touches on the topic of borrowers of books, whom he refers to as "alienators." He laments the loss of his own books to borrowers and reflects on the impact it has had on his collection. He criticizes those who borrow books without appreciating or understanding them, highlighting the loss and damage caused by their actions.

In conclusion, Lamb's essay explores the dichotomy between borrowers and lenders, with a focus on the virtues and qualities of borrowers. He humorously reflects on the experiences he had with his friend and his encounters with borrowers of books. The essay highlights the cultural and social dynamics associated with borrowing and lending, while also offering a personal perspective on the matter.

Analysis

In "The Two Races of Men," Charles Lamb presents a satirical analysis of the distinctions between borrowers and lenders. Through his witty and playful tone, Lamb explores the social dynamics, attitudes, and behaviors associated with these two groups.

One of the main themes in the essay is the idea of superiority and degradation. Lamb argues that borrowers, whom he refers to as the "great race," possess qualities that make them superior, such as figure, port, and instinctive sovereignty. On the other hand, lenders are depicted as born in a state of degradation, characterized by a lean and suspicious air. This differentiation serves as a satirical commentary on the power dynamics between borrowers and lenders, challenging traditional notions of social status.

Lamb's portrayal of borrowers is humorous and exaggerated. He emphasizes their carefree nature, their reliance on Providence, and their disregard for money and possessions. Borrowers are depicted as having a generous and open manner, treating money as if it were of little value. Lamb presents their borrowing habits as a noble simplification of language and a rejection of the pedantic distinctions of ownership.

Through his descriptions, Lamb highlights the charm and persuasive abilities of borrowers. He characterizes them as cheerful and voluntary, using a pleasant look as a "tormentum" to extract loans. Lamb contrasts them with sour parochial or state-gatherers, further emphasizing the positive qualities of borrowers.

Additionally, Lamb explores the concept of loss and the impact of borrowing on personal possessions, particularly books. He introduces the notion of "alienators," borrowers who harm collections by mutilating them, spoiling the symmetry of shelves, and creating odd volumes. Lamb expresses frustration and laments the loss of his own books to borrowers, criticizing their lack of understanding and appreciation for the borrowed material.

Overall, "The Two Races of Men" offers a playful and satirical examination of the dynamics between borrowers and lenders. It challenges traditional notions of social status, highlights the power dynamics involved in borrowing, and satirizes the behaviors and attitudes of both groups. Lamb's use of humor and wit adds a comedic element to the analysis, engaging the reader while subtly critiquing societal norms and values.