# Preparation for England explained — The Story of My Experiments with Truth

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

## What happens

Gandhi describes his matriculation in 1887, his struggles at Samaldas College, and the family discussions that led to his decision to go to England to study law. Overcoming his mother's concerns and his uncle's reservations, he takes vows of abstinence from wine, women, and meat, and receives permission to depart.

## Themes in this chapter

### Education and Self-Improvement

Gandhi's pursuit of legal education in England as a means to improve his family's prospects and fulfill his father's ambitions.

### Family and Personal Relationships

The chapter highlights the roles of Gandhi's mother, brother, uncle, and family advisers in the decision to go abroad.

### Self-Discipline and Simplicity

Gandhi takes vows of abstinence from wine, women, and meat to reassure his mother, demonstrating early commitment to self-discipline.

## Character check-ins

### Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi

The narrator and protagonist, determined to go to England for legal studies.

### Mavji Dave

Family adviser who strongly recommends sending Gandhi to England to become a barrister.

### Putlibai Gandhi

Gandhi's mother, initially reluctant but eventually gives permission after he takes vows.

### Kaba Gandhi

Gandhi's deceased father, referenced in the discussion about career choices.

### Mr. Lely

Administrator of Porbandar State who refuses Gandhi's request for financial help.

## Key lines

> I vowed not to touch wine, woman and meat.

Gandhi made a solemn promise to abstain from alcohol, sexual relations, and meat.

_This vow was administered by Becharji Swami to secure his mother's permission._

> I had written out a few words of thanks. But I could scarcely stammer them out. I remember how my head reeled and how my whole frame shook as I stood up to read them.

Gandhi prepared a short speech of gratitude but was so nervous that he could barely speak, trembling as he stood before the school assembly.

_This occurred at the send-off given by his high school in Rajkot._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-i-xi-preparation-for-england
- 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