The elements of character

An instructional guide to forming moral character that argues for balanced cultivation of intellect, imagination, and affection. It outlines component elements such as thought, imagination, affection, life, conversation, manners, and companionship, and recommends regular reflective reading, self-examination, and attentive observation of others as means to improvement. The author warns against extremes—education that is exclusively intellectual, moral, or religious—and against pride, bigotry, and wasted thought. Practical counsel addresses mental nourishment for laborers, the shaping influence of domestic relations, polite conduct, and the steady application of inward discipline to foster habitual virtue and steady moral growth.