Thomas Arnold Quotes

A collection of quotes by Thomas Arnold.

Thomas Arnold (1795-1842) was a prominent English educator and historian. He was born on June 13, 1795, in Cowes, Isle of Wight, England. Arnold attended Winchester College and then proceeded to study at Corpus Christi College, Oxford, where he earned distinction in classics. After receiving his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1818, he was elected a fellow of Oriel College, Oxford.

Arnold's true impact on education came when he was appointed as the headmaster of Rugby School in 1828. Under his transformative leadership, the school underwent significant reforms. Arnold implemented a comprehensive curriculum that emphasized modern languages, mathematics, and the sciences alongside classical subjects. He also focused on fostering moral and spiritual development, believing in the importance of educating the whole person.

Arnold's dedication to nurturing character and values in his students earned him widespread acclaim as a visionary educator. He advocated for truth-telling, integrity, and honesty in education, challenging the prevailing ideas of academic elitism. Arnold firmly believed in the importance of shaping citizens who would contribute positively to society.

In addition to his contributions as an educator, Arnold was a revered historian. His works, including "The History of Rome," became esteemed classics in the field. Arnold's method of historical inquiry centered on understanding civilizations through the lives of notable individuals, providing a more vivid and relatable account of the past.

Thomas Arnold's innovative approach and enduring impact continue to influence educational philosophy worldwide. His concern for character development and holistic education established him as a pioneering figure in the field of education.

One's age should be tranquil, as childhood should be playful

One's age should be tranquil, as childhood should be playful. Hard work at either extremity of life seems out of place. At midday the sun may burn, and men labor under it; but the morning and evening should be alike calm and cheerful.

Thomas Arnold


Probably the happiest period in life most frequently is in m

Probably the happiest period in life most frequently is in middle age, when the eager passions of youth are cooled, and the infirmities of age not yet begun; as we see that the shadows, which are at morning and evening so large, almost entirely disappear at midday.

Thomas Arnold


Real knowledge, like everything else of value, is not to be

Real knowledge, like everything else of value, is not to be obtained easily. It must be worked for, studied for, thought for, and, more that all, must be prayed for.

Thomas Arnold

Knowledge

What we must look for here is, firstly, religious and moral

What we must look for here is, firstly, religious and moral principles; secondly, gentlemanly conduct; thirdly, intellectual ability.

Thomas Arnold

Education

One's age should be tranquil, as childhood should be playful

One's age should be tranquil, as childhood should be playful. Hard work at either extremity of life seems out of place. At midday the sun may burn, and men labor under it but the morning and evening should be alike calm and cheerful.

Thomas Arnold

Morning

Rather than have it the principal thing in my son's mind, I

Rather than have it the principal thing in my son's mind, I would gladly have him think that the sun went round the earth, and that the stars were so many spangles set in the bright blue firmament.

Thomas Arnold

Science

My object will be, if possible, to form Christian men, for C

My object will be, if possible, to form Christian men, for Christian boys I can scarcely hope to make.

Thomas Arnold

Teaching