Famous quote by Evelyn Waugh

"The truth is that Oxford is simply a very beautiful city in which it is convenient to segregate a certain number of the young of the nation while they are growing up"

About this Quote

Evelyn Waugh's quote about Oxford uses a nuanced point of view on the role and environment of university life in this renowned city. Waugh recommends that Oxford is not just a scholastic institution but an attractive cocoon for young people. By calling Oxford "a very lovely city", he acknowledges the aesthetic and historic attraction that the city has. Its architecture, history, and surroundings hold an intrinsic beauty that captivates both visitors and homeowners. Yet, Waugh's declaration surpasses simple affection.

Describing Oxford as a place where it is "practical to segregate a specific number of the young of the country while they are maturing" presents an important lens. The word "segregate" indicates a deliberate separation of students from the more comprehensive society. This could be viewed as putting students in a bubble where they can establish intellectually and socially, far from the instant needs and distractions of the 'real world.' This separation enables a focus on academic pursuits and personal growth, typically viewed as necessary throughout these developmental years.

Moreover, Waugh might be hinting at the exclusivity and opportunity connected with participating in a prestigious university like Oxford. The idea of partition raises questions about who gets access to these environments and the social stratification that can arise from such instructional pipelines.

The phrase "while they are growing up" highlights the transitional nature of university life. Students are not just building up knowledge; they are also experiencing significant individual advancement. Oxford serves as a background for this change, supplying not just an education however also an initiation rite.

In general, Waugh's remark highlights Oxford's dual role as a nurturing yet exclusive environment. It invites reflection on the nature of higher education and the social systems that support it, motivating a deeper factor to consider of the university experience beyond academia alone.

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About the Author

Evelyn Waugh This quote is from Evelyn Waugh between October 28, 1903 and April 10, 1966. He was a famous Author from United Kingdom. The author also have 31 other quotes.
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