This essay aims to demonstrate the various perspectives on education that are evident in different teachers. It is evident that Hector embodies a more extroverted approach, while Mrs. Lintott represents the typical teacher archetype. On the other hand, Irwin is a fresh addition to the teaching community with his unique views on education. The discussion will delve into each teacher’s viewpoint, beginning with Hector as one of the central figures.
In my opinion, she is the most practical one. She taught them the facts, while Hector imparted life knowledge and Irwin provided them with technique. Moreover, she believes that during their university interviews, they should consider the perspective of a woman as well because it holds importance. She states, “I hesitate to mention, lest it occasion a sophisticated groan, but it may not have crossed your minds that one of the dons who interviews you may be a woman.” This indicates that during that time, women were considered inferior to men. She also doubts Irwin’s capability to fill her shoes when she retires and metaphorically says, “Anyway what Felix wanted to tell me is that when I finish next year he’s hoping he can persuade you to step into my shoes… For your information they’re information they’re a size seven court shoe, broad fitting.” This showcases her pride in her accomplishments and implies that Irwin won’t be able to achieve the same. Irwin is the young teacher who has discovered a difficult method to secure admission into a prestigious university.
He believes that history should be taught with an unbiased perspective. “But this is History. Distance yourselves. Our perspective on the past alters. Looking back, immediately in front of us is dead ground. We don’t see it, and because we don’t see it this means that there is no period so remote as the recent past. And one of the historian’s jobs is to anticipate what our perspective of that period will be… even on the Holocaust.” This quote suggests that he acknowledges the subjective nature of interpreting history. He also criticizes Hector’s teaching method, stating that it is no longer suitable. “He was a good man but I do not think there is time for his kind of teaching any more.” This comment by Irwin implies that Hector’s approach to teaching is outdated. Additionally, he is confident that his own method will guide them through the education system and into a prestigious university. He believes that they have the necessary knowledge about history, but they need to refine and polish it for their interview. “Think charm. Think polish.” This represents the viewpoint of the headmaster.
The text highlights the contrasting views of the teachers and their approaches to education. According to one perspective, Irwin suggests that to secure scholarships for Cambridge or Oxford, one should not lie but rather change the way they think about history. He believes in looking for alternative viewpoints and challenging conventional ideas. On the other hand, Hector believes in passing on knowledge and wisdom to future generations, emphasizing the importance of sharing it without personal gain. Mrs. Lintott, however, focuses on providing factual information and practical knowledge. This demonstrates various conflicts in teaching methods and opinions on how students should approach getting into prestigious universities.
