The Education of Children

Name: The Education of Children
Author: Desiderius Erasmus

By Desiderius Erasmus

Open in WeRead

Explore more books like this:

Philosophy & Ethics Teaching & Education

About This Book

The treatise advises parents to begin instruction while a child's mind is pliant, emphasizing memory, moral formation, and the ordering of learning from simple to complex. It urges careful choice of teachers and nurses, gentle encouragement instead of harshness, and a mix of pleasant exercises and disciplined study to form habits and manners. Practical guidance covers reading suitable texts, language learning, moderation of physical strain, and aligning early lessons with later usefulness, with the aim of producing a well-adapted, virtuous, and capable adult.

About the Author

Desiderius Erasmus

Desiderius Erasmus, a Dutch Renaissance humanist and theologian, is best known for his critical and satirical works that challenged the religious and social norms of his time. Born in Rotterdam around 1466, he became a prominent figure in the intellectual movement that emphasized the importance of education and classical learning. His most famous work, "In Praise of Folly," critiques the superstitions and corrupt practices of the Church, blending humor with sharp insight. Erasmus's dialogues, such as "A Merry Dialogue Declaringe the Properties of Shrowde Shrews and Honest Wives," showcase his wit and ability to engage with complex ideas through accessible conversation. His contributions to literature and thought continue to influence modern perspectives on education, religion, and society.