The Novel and the Common School   By: Charles Dudley Warner (1829-1900)

Charles Dudley Warner’s The Novel and the Common School is a thought-provoking exploration of the relationship between literature and education in American society. In this compelling work, Warner delves into the crucial role that novels play in shaping the minds and values of young students.

One of the key arguments put forth by Warner is that novels have the potential to greatly influence the moral development and character formation of students. He asserts that novels are more than just entertaining stories; they have the power to expand students' horizons, foster empathy, and instill important values such as compassion and justice. Drawing upon extensive examples from classic literature, Warner convincingly demonstrates how exposure to well-crafted narratives can shape the moral compass of young individuals.

Another fascinating aspect of Warner’s book is his exploration of the impact of novels on the imagination and creativity of students. He observes that novels have the ability to transport readers to different times, places, and perspectives, thereby broadening their understanding of the world. By encouraging students to engage with imaginative and thought-provoking narratives, Warner argues that novels can inspire creativity and critical thinking, skills that are vital for success in the contemporary world.

Furthermore, Warner raises important questions about the traditional approach to education, which often prioritizes practical subjects at the expense of literature and the arts. He challenges the prevailing notion that novels are mere diversions and argues for their inclusion as an essential part of the curriculum in common schools. By placing novels on equal footing with other academic subjects, Warner contends that educational institutions can foster well-rounded students who possess a deep knowledge of both practical skills and profound insights gleaned from literature.

Although written in the late 19th century, Warner’s ideas on the role of novels in education have enduring relevance today. In an increasingly transactional and technologically driven society, his book serves as a powerful reminder of the intrinsic value of stories and their ability to shape our consciousness. Warner’s eloquent writing and thoughtful analysis make The Novel and the Common School a compelling read for educators, parents, and anyone interested in the intersection of literature and education.

In conclusion, The Novel and the Common School by Charles Dudley Warner is an intellectually stimulating exploration of the transformative potential of novels in the realm of education. Through his insightful arguments and engaging prose, Warner convincingly advocates for the inclusion of novels as a vital component of the curriculum. This book is an enlightening and valuable resource for anyone interested in the power of literature to shape young minds and create a more empathetic and imaginative society.

First Page:

There has been a great improvement in the physical condition of the people of the United States within two generations. This is more noticeable in the West than in the East, but it is marked everywhere; and the foreign traveler who once detected a race deterioration, which he attributed to a dry and stimulating atmosphere and to a feverish anxiety, which was evident in all classes, for a rapid change of condition, finds very little now to sustain his theory. Although the restless energy continues, the mixed race in America has certainly changed physically for the better. Speaking generally, the contours of face and form are more rounded. The change is most marked in regions once noted for leanness, angularity, and sallowness of complexion, but throughout the country the types of physical manhood are more numerous; and if women of rare and exceptional beauty are not more numerous, no doubt the average of comeliness and beauty has been raised. Thus far, the increase of beauty due to better development has not been at the expense of delicacy of complexion and of line, as it has been in some European countries. Physical well being is almost entirely a matter of nutrition. Something is due in our case to the accumulation of money, to the decrease in an increasing number of our population of the daily anxiety about food and clothes, to more leisure; but abundant and better prepared food is the direct agency in our physical change... Continue reading book >>