The Story of My Experiments with Truth · Chapter
Called—But Then? explained
Gandhi describes the process of being called to the bar in England, including the requirements of keeping terms by attending dinners and passing examinations.
What happens
Gandhi describes the process of being called to the bar in England, including the requirements of keeping terms by attending dinners and passing examinations. He reflects on the superficiality of the system, his own rigorous self-study of law texts, and his eventual call to the bar in June 1891, followed by his return to India. Despite his qualifications, he admits to feeling helpless and unprepared to practice law.
Themes in this chapter
Education and Self-Improvement
Gandhi's self-imposed rigorous study of law textbooks, including Roman Law in Latin, reflects his commitment to genuine learning over mere credentialing.
Vegetarianism and Dietary Discipline
Gandhi's vegetarianism at the bar dinners leads him to request vegetarian courses from the benchers' table, highlighting his dietary discipline.
Characters to notice
- Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi
Narrates his experience of being called to the bar, his rigorous study of law, and his feelings of helplessness despite passing the examinations.
Key passages
“I passed my examinations, was called to the bar on the 10th of June 1891, and enrolled in the High Court on the 11th. On the 12th I sailed for home.”
Gandhi completed his legal qualifications, was admitted to the bar, and immediately returned to India.
This marks the formal conclusion of his legal studies in England.
“But notwithstanding my study there was no end to my helplessness and fear. I did not feel myself qualified to practise law.”
Despite his academic success, Gandhi felt deeply unprepared and anxious about actually practicing law.
Highlights Gandhi's humility and self-doubt despite his achievements.