The School and the World   By: Victor Gollancz (1893-1967)

The School and the World by Victor Gollancz is a thought-provoking and powerful exploration of education, society, and personal aspirations. Through a passionate narrative, the author delves into the dichotomy between traditional schooling and the real world, highlighting the impact each has on shaping individuals and society as a whole.

Gollancz presents a captivating story centered around protagonist John Middleton, a young teacher struggling with the limitations he perceives within the educational system. Frustrated with the emphasis on rote learning and the neglect of individual talents and aspirations, John embarks on a journey to find an alternative to traditional education.

The book's strength lies in Gollancz's ability to interweave philosophical discussions with engaging storytelling. By contrasting John's experiences within the structured environment of the school, and the freedom he encounters outside its confines, the author illustrates the potential consequences of an overly rigid or stagnant education system.

Not only does Gollancz raise important questions about the purpose of education, but he also touches upon broader societal issues. Through vivid characters and their interactions, he highlights the impact of class, social status, and gender roles on one's ability to access quality education and pursue their dreams.

The writing style is thoughtful and engaging, drawing readers into John's journey of self-discovery and his pursuit of a more meaningful education. Gollancz's descriptions are vivid, capturing the beauty and variety of the world outside the classroom, and providing a stark contrast to the sterility often associated with traditional education settings.

While the book is primarily focused on John's personal evolution, Gollancz expertly incorporates a wider social and political commentary. In tackling themes such as social inequality and the power dynamics within education, the author challenges readers to question and reevaluate their own beliefs and assumptions about education and its impact on society.

However, some readers might find that the book occasionally veers into didacticism, with moments where the narrative feels overtaken by philosophical debates. While these discussions are integral to the book's central themes, they may slow down the pacing for readers seeking a more plot-driven experience.

Overall, The School and the World is a thought-provoking novel that tackles important questions about education, personal growth, and societal change. Victor Gollancz's writing is engaging and evocative, making this book a compelling read for anyone interested in the power of education to shape individuals and society at large.

First Page:

But in the intervening seven months several things had happened. On the one hand, "Political Education" had produced further striking evidence of its power over boys' intellects and characters, evidence altogether more striking than anything that had occurred up to the time of writing the book. On the other hand, the movement in the full tide of its success ran upon rocks and has been, for the time being at any rate, utterly and completely destroyed. The authors have left the school in which their experiments were made... Continue reading book >>