The Education of American GirlsBrackett, Anna C. (Anna Callender)
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The Education of American Girls
Brackett, Anna C. (Anna Callender)
Women -- Education -- United States
I have said little, directly, of school education, because there comes
in the teacher's influence, and, as regards intellectual training, it is
usually better than the mother's. And though the mother should never
yield her right of interest and ultimate appeal, yet, having selected a
teacher, she should give her generous confidence and conscientious
support. But she must always be watchful to guard her daughter's health,
most of all against herself. From my own observation I should say that
the overwork and over-stimulus complained of in schools is far more
often the fault of pupils and parents than of teachers. The calm, steady
work which lays a foundation for future mental power, is not
appreciated, and brilliant results are demanded at once.
And here I wish to speak of the study of music, as it is usually
pursued. From the tradition of David's soothing Saul by his harp, has, I
believe, arisen an idea that music is a thoroughly healthful, refreshing
influence, with a wonderful soothing power over the nerves. And yet the
nervous excitability, and even irritability, of musicians is proverbial.
We must make nice distinctions. The influence of hearing music is one
thing, the study of music is another. Unquestionably the power of music
to lift the mind into fresh regions of enjoyment, to change the current
of thought, to rouse and quicken the nervous action, and so to vivify
and raise the tone of health and spirits is very great. I have known
those to whom it is the best of medicine, and whom I believe it has
saved through severe trials, from utter despair and morbidness.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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