"Discourses in America" by Matthew Arnold is a trio of speeches from the late 1800s that explores social and political ideas in both America and England. It studies ideas like love for one's country, how much power the majority should have, and the moral duties of people in a government run by the people. Arnold looks closely at the effects of important thinkers, like Emerson, and shares his thoughts on how American society is changing and where it might be going. Arnold starts by thanking his American listeners for being open to his ideas, especially when they went against common ideas about patriotism. Acknowledging flaws in English and American societies, he suggests that moral understanding and change are needed during current political problems. The initial speech of the collection talks about 'Numbers,' pointing out that the majority's decisions are often unreliable but suggesting that a smaller, more righteous group can lead society toward improvements; using historical examples and philosophical ideas, Arnold prepares for a closer analysis of societal progress, highlighting the importance of moral understanding and thoughtful involvement in both nations.
Discourses in America
By Matthew Arnold
In a time of political struggle, discover how moral reform and a virtuous minority can redirect society's course.
Summary
About the AuthorMatthew Arnold was an English poet and cultural critic. He was the son of Thomas Arnold, the headmaster of Rugby School, and brother to both Tom Arnold, literary professor, and William Delafield Arnold, novelist and colonial administrator. He has been characterised as a sage writer, a type of writer who chastises and instructs the reader on contemporary social issues. He was also an inspector of schools for thirty-five years, and supported the concept of state-regulated secondary education.
Matthew Arnold was an English poet and cultural critic. He was the son of Thomas Arnold, the headmaster of Rugby School, and brother to both Tom Arnold, literary professor, and William Delafield Arnold, novelist and colonial administrator. He has been characterised as a sage writer, a type of writer who chastises and instructs the reader on contemporary social issues. He was also an inspector of schools for thirty-five years, and supported the concept of state-regulated secondary education.
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