Letters to His Son, 1748 : On the Fine Art of Becoming a Man of the World and a Gentleman

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Chesterfield, Philip Dormer Stanhope, Earl of, 1694-1773

Language:

English

Physical Description:

1 online resource : multiple file formats

Place of Publication:

Salt Lake City, UT : Project Gutenberg,

Summary:

"Letters to His Son, 1748" by Earl of Chesterfield is a collection of personal letters to his son written in the mid-18th century. The work primarily focuses on the fine art of becoming a well-rounded man of the world and a gentleman, combining practical advice with reflections on manners, etiquette, and intellectual growth as essential components of a successful life. The opening of the book sets the tone for a series of letters in which Chesterfield shares insights into navigating social circles and personal development. He begins by praising his son's use of time in Leipzig and emphasizes the importance of learning from everyone, regardless of their perceived dullness or lack of sophistication. Chesterfield cautions against contempt for others, advocating a more inquisitive approach to life and knowledge. He also underscores the value of good manners, political understanding, and the ability to engage meaningfully with various cultures, which he believes will be crucial for his son's adaptation to court life and future endeavors. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Credits:

Produced by David Widger

Notes:

Reading ease score: 57.7 (10th to 12th grade). Somewhat difficult to read.

Release date is 2004-12-01