# At the High School explained — The Story of My Experiments with Truth

> Chapter companion for The Story of My Experiments with Truth by Mahatma Gandhi.

## What happens

Gandhi reflects on his high school years, describing his academic progress, his relationships with teachers, and the challenges of balancing studies with family duties. He recounts incidents involving corporal punishment, a false accusation of lying, his dislike for gymnastics, and his struggles with geometry and Sanskrit. He emphasizes the importance of truth, care, and a well-rounded education, including physical training and handwriting.

## Themes in this chapter

### Education and Self-Improvement

Gandhi discusses his academic journey, the importance of a broad curriculum including languages and physical training, and his regret over neglecting handwriting.

### Truth and Self-Experimentation

Gandhi's deep anguish over being falsely accused of lying highlights his commitment to truth and the lesson that a man of truth must also be a man of care.

### Family and Personal Relationships

Gandhi's desire to serve his ailing father influenced his school choices, and his father's intervention helped him obtain exemption from compulsory gymnastics.

## Character check-ins

### Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi

Narrator and subject of the chapter; reflects on his school experiences, character, and academic challenges.

### Kaba Gandhi

Gandhi's father, whom he served as a nurse; wrote to the headmaster to exempt Gandhi from gymnastics.

## Key lines

> I very jealously guarded my character. The least little blemish drew tears from my eyes.

Gandhi was extremely protective of his reputation, and even a minor fault would make him cry.

_Illustrates Gandhi's early commitment to moral integrity._

> I saw that a man of truth must also be a man of care.

Gandhi realized that being truthful requires being attentive and careful in one's actions.

_Key lesson from the incident of being falsely accused of lying._

> I am now of opinion that children should first be taught the art of drawing before learning how to write.

Gandhi believes that teaching children to draw first will help them develop better handwriting later.

_Reflects Gandhi's views on educational methods._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-i-v-at-the-high-school
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters