Father and Son: A Study of Two Temperaments

"Father and Son: A Study of Two Temperaments" by Edmund Gosse is a story that looks back at the author's life under the care of his parents, examining ideas about belief, learning, and how different personalities can affect how people get along. Gosse shares a close-up view of his family, revealing how their different beliefs caused a painful split, even though they still cared for each other deeply. The story starts by showing how the author grew up in a very religious home, following strict rules and studying the Bible. He talks about feeling alone as a child, kept away from normal fun like stories and games. We also meet his strong, religious mother, whose declining health becomes important later on, and his father, a dedicated scientist, whose studies greatly influence the family’s life. This beginning sets the stage for Gosse to explore tough topics like belief, responsibility, and being true to oneself, within his personal family experiences.