The Education of Henry Adams · Chapter
Chaos (1870) explained
In 1870, Henry Adams returns to London and finds himself disoriented by the rapid changes in society and politics.
What happens
In 1870, Henry Adams returns to London and finds himself disoriented by the rapid changes in society and politics. He reflects on his decision to accept a professorship at Harvard College, a path he did not choose, and contrasts the stagnation and corruption of Washington D.C. with the evolutionary progress he observes in Europe. The chapter captures his sense of being caught between old and new worlds, and his growing disillusionment with American political life.
Themes in this chapter
Education and Self-Formation
Adams grapples with the meaning of education, questioning the value of his Harvard professorship and the lessons of experience in a rapidly changing world.
Historical Determinism and Chaos
The chapter's title 'Chaos' reflects Adams' sense of disorientation and the unpredictable nature of historical change, as he feels the world is about to be upset.
American Exceptionalism and Europe
Adams contrasts the stagnation and corruption of Washington with the evolutionary progress of Europe, highlighting the limitations of American society and character.
The Failure of Leadership
Adams criticizes the Grant administration and the broader political class in Washington, noting that few public men of the era achieved lasting positive reputations.
Characters to notice
- Henry Adams
Returns to London in 1870, reflecting on his past and his reluctant acceptance of a Harvard professorship.
- Charles Eliot
President of Harvard who appoints Adams as professor of medieval history despite Adams' lack of expertise.
- William Ewart Gladstone
Mentioned as a prominent political figure in Britain, pushing reforms like the Education Act.
- John Bright
In the Cabinet in 1870, part of the reform movement in Britain.
- William E. Forster
Friend of Adams, about to enter the Cabinet and pushing the Education Bill.
- Francis Turner Palgrave
Engages Adams in a debate about the likelihood of war between France and Germany.
- Abraham Lincoln
Referenced as a model of the quiet, sad, tragic American character seen in Washington.
- Ulysses S. Grant
Mentioned as an example of the inarticulate, uncertain American leader; his administration is criticized for wrecking men.
Key passages
“With the courteous manner and bland smile so familiar for the next generation of Americans Mr. Eliot mildly but firmly replied, 'If you will point out to me anyone who knows more, Mr. Adams, I will appoint him.'”
President Eliot of Harvard, with a polite but unyielding demeanor, told Adams that if he could name a better candidate for the medieval history professorship, Eliot would hire that person instead.
This exchange highlights Adams' reluctant entry into academia, a path he did not choose.
“He had reached crossroads of education which all led astray. What he could gain at Harvard College he did not know, but in any case it was nothing he wanted.”
Adams felt that every possible educational path he could take was misguided, and he saw no value in what Harvard could offer him.
Reflects Adams' deep skepticism about formal education and his sense of being forced into an unwanted career.
“Grant's administration wrecked men by thousands, but profited few. Perhaps Mr. Fish was the solitary exception.”
The Grant presidency ruined the careers of many people, with only Secretary of State Hamilton Fish emerging with a good reputation.
Adams' critique of the political corruption and failure of leadership during the Grant era.
