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Unit 3: Francis Bacon—Of Studies: Detailed Study and Critical Analysis

3.4 Key-Words Notes

1. Abridgment : Miniature
2. Absurd : Stupid, unpolished
3. Abuse : Cheat, deceive
4. Aculeate : Stinging

3.5 Review Questions
1. Bacon says that only a few books are to be “chewed and digested.” What books would be on
your list in this category? Why would you include them?
2. Bacon says that too much studying is laziness. Do you agree? Explain how this paradox, or
seeming contradiction, can be true.
3. Bacon had the reputation of being a hard, ambitious man, and his essays are frequently said to
be cynical and lacking in warmth. Find remarks in “Of Studies” that could support this view.
How did you feel about the person behind this essay?
4. Bacon’s fondness for parallel structure and balanced sentences is apparent in “Of Studies.” For
example: “Some books are to be tasted, others to be swallowed, and some few to be chewed
and digested.” Find and read aloud other examples of Bacon’s parallelism and balance.
5. Why do you read? Compare your reasons with Bacon’s arguments for reading.
6. What passages in “Of Studies” do you think could apply especially well to today’s arguments
about the value of education?
7. “Of Studies” was written almost four hundred years ago. Are any of its points dated? Do you
disagree with anything Bacon says?
Answers: Self-Assessment
1. (i)(a) (ii)(b) (iii)(c) (iv)(d)

3.6 Further Readings

1. Rai Vikramadity: Bacon Essays, Doaba House.

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