Summary:
In Of Travel, Francis Bacon emphasizes the importance of travel as a means of gaining knowledge and experience. He advises that young travelers should be guided by tutors to make the most of their journeys. Travelers should observe the governance, customs, and cultural aspects of the places they visit. Bacon encourages travelers to document their experiences in journals and avoid criticizing their home country while abroad. He also highlights the importance of learning foreign languages and advises that upon returning home, travelers should share their knowledge wisely. The essay concludes that travel broadens the mind and helps individuals grow intellectually and culturally.
MCQs:
- According to Bacon, what is the main purpose of travel?
a) To escape from responsibilities
b) To gain experience and knowledge
c) To enjoy luxury and relaxation
d) To seek adventure and thrill
Answer: b) To gain experience and knowledge - Bacon suggests that young travelers should have what kind of guidance?
a) No guidance at all
b) A mentor or tutor
c) A book of travel guides
d) Complete freedom to explore
Answer: b) A mentor or tutor - What does Bacon say travelers should learn about the places they visit?
a) Only about entertainment and recreation
b) About their customs, laws, and governance
c) Only about food and fashion
d) The best markets and shopping areas
Answer: b) About their customs, laws, and governance - According to Bacon, how should travelers document their experiences?
a) By keeping a journal
b) By collecting souvenirs
c) By telling stories to friends
d) By taking paintings of the places
Answer: a) By keeping a journal - What does Bacon advise travelers to avoid?
a) Visiting places of historical importance
b) Speaking negatively about their home country
c) Learning foreign languages
d) Experiencing local customs
Answer: b) Speaking negatively about their home country - According to Bacon, what should be a priority when visiting foreign lands?
a) Making money through trade
b) Making friends in high places
c) Learning about their governance and policies
d) Finding the best food and drinks
Answer: c) Learning about their governance and policies - What does Bacon believe about the languages of foreign countries?
a) They are unnecessary to learn
b) They help in gaining deeper insights into a culture
c) They should only be learned by scholars
d) They are difficult and not worth the effort
Answer: b) They help in gaining deeper insights into a culture - What is Bacon’s advice on a person who has traveled widely?
a) They should use their knowledge wisely
b) They should boast about their travels
c) They should keep their experiences to themselves
d) They should settle in a foreign land
Answer: a) They should use their knowledge wisely - Bacon states that travelers should do what upon returning home?
a) Share their experiences with others
b) Forget about their travels
c) Never leave home again
d) Avoid talking about their travels
Answer: a) Share their experiences with others - What is the final message of Of Travel?
a) Traveling is a waste of time
b) Traveling enriches the mind and broadens perspective
c) Travelers should always settle in foreign lands
d) Travel should be done only for business purposes
Answer: b) Traveling enriches the mind and broadens perspective
Question | Answer |
Essay Name | Of Travel |
Author | Francis Bacon |
Year Written | Before 1625 |
Year Published | 1625 |
Essay Type | Philosophical/Advisory Essay |
Main Theme | The benefits and importance of travel |
Advice for Young Travelers | Travel with a mentor or tutor |
Importance of Travel | Gaining knowledge of governance, customs, and laws |
Role of Language | Learning languages helps in cultural understanding |
Travel Documentation | Keeping a journal to record experiences |
Final Message | Travel broadens the mind and enhances understanding |