“A Definition of a Gentleman” – Cardinal Newman - Critical Summary

Introduction:

John Henry Newman’s The Idea of a University is an attempt to define a liberal arts education.  In this book, he argues that the primary purpose of a university is to develop the mind, and not merely to dispense information.  He was strongly in favour of a ‘liberal education' which he contrasted with commercial or professional education. According to him, a student, after his studies at the University, must be able to cultivate a lifestyle according to what he or she has grasped and practised from the university way of living. The present essay, “A Definition of a Gentleman” is an excerpt from The Idea of a University, a series of lectures given in Ireland in the year 1852.

Who's a Gentleman?

One who never inflicts Pain:

Newman defines the gentleman as one who never inflicts pain. This, according to him, is the most refined as the most accurate definition of a gentleman. Outlining the qualities of a gentleman, Newman says that, a gentleman doesn't assert his nature, but instead makes others who are around him feel comfortable and at ease. He also helps others by making it easier for them to succeed.

Gentleman – Compared to an Easy Chair or a Good Fire:

A true gentleman is like an easy chair or a good fire that helps people to be warm and cozy. An easy chair does nothing really; it just provides a wonderful place to relax and make people feel at ease and at comfort. Moreover, we don't have to do anything to enjoy the easy chair; it is always there, always welcoming, and always comfortable. Similarly, the gentleman is not always in front of you, but still he is there... waiting with open arms to comfort you, helps make your life easier, and to support you when you need it most. The gentleman is also compared to a good fire, which helps dispel cold and fatigue. The gentleman in like manner, is a secure solace during times of sadness and weariness, and is a warm reassurance of solace during times of trouble.

He carefully avoids whatever may grieve the minds of the people with whom he meets and interacts in the ordinary course of his life. Because his great concern is to make every one feel relaxed and at home.

Observes the Four Cardinal Virtues:

A gentleman strives earnestly to follow the four cardinal virtues of Prudence, Justice, Self-control and Courage. The word cardinal comes from the Latin word cardo, which means "hinge." They are so called because they are the four primary moral virtues (the hinges) upon which the door of the moral life swings.

The gentleman always makes light of the good deeds that he does to others, and never speaks of himself unless compelled to do so. He has no room for slander or gossip, and is never mean or little in his disputes. He never takes unfair advantage of any situation, does not nurse a grudge against people who were unjust to him.

He Possesses A Disciplined Intellect:

Exposure to a good liberal education at a good university makes a person have a disciplined intellect. A disciplined intellect is an intellect that has been trained to handle any situation by applying thought to problem-solving. A student with a disciplined intellect knows his own intellectual strengths and weaknesses, and consciously attempt to improve on his strengths and correct his weaknesses. This process is commonly called "critical thinking."

A disciplined intellect also preserves a gentleman from the blundering discourtesy of uneducated minds, who waste their strength on trifles.

He is An Expert Decision-Maker:

Decisiveness is an essential aspect of a gentleman. The world respects the decisive man. The decisive man is calm and cool under pressure. He has purpose and direction; he is the man with the plan. In contrast, the indecisive man makes little or very slow progress in his life because he is always uncertain, unable to decide which way to go.

His Attitude towards Religious Beliefs:

As regards religious beliefs, a gentleman is open-minded person regarding others religious beliefs and curious to know and hear what other religions can teach him. He respects piety and devotion; honours ministers of religion and is a friend of religious toleration. His philosophy has taught him to look on all forms of faith with an impartial eye, which is an essential ingredient of civilisation.

Conclusion:

Newman’s holistic viewpoints on the definition of a gentleman are characteristics one needs to develop, demonstrate and perfect over a lifetime. To sum up, a cultivated intellect, a delicate taste, a dispassionate mind, a noble and courteous bearing in the conduct of life, are the essential qualities that make a gentleman out of a good liberal university education.