What Is The Moral Of Lord Chesterfield's Letter To His Son

The excerpt from Lord Chesterfield’s ridiculing letter to his son reveals Lord Chesterfield’s own values by appealing to the parental emotions that Chesterfield summons within himself both scolding and praising; the guidance and reliability within Chesterfield that qualifies him to guide his son despite his own mistakes; and the logical advice that has proven worthy in Chesterfield’s own life regarding education and a proper work ethic.

Chesterfield adds credibility to himself immediately by assuring that he is reaching out to his son in the manner that is not meant “to dictate as a parent,” but “advise as a friend.” The author then reminds his son that as his father, Chesterfield has experienced more life lessons and developed a greater moral understanding through his superior quantity of years in the world, thus adding to his competence to offer his son guidance. Chesterfield also humbles himself, admitting that “thorns and briars . . . scratched and

disfigured me in the course of [my youth].” Thus, it is evident that Chesterfield reveals his beliefs that one should mentor as an ally with righteous intentions and not edict those inferior, and recognize the principled superiority of the aged.

By evoking a cognitive, rational response from his son, Chesterfield indicates that his son is “absolutely dependent” on his father and that his son lacks a proper education due to the irresponsible nature that he pursues and the "uncommon care which has been taken of [his son's] education." Furthermore, Chesterfield reminds his son that "one may as well not know a thing at all, as know it but imperfectly," for that "brings disgrace or ridicule." This divulges Chesterfield’s idea that as a parent, he is to bring to light the wrongdoings of his son regarding his education and lack of responsibility to pursue a just lifestyle through appropriate behavior.

Later, Chesterfield appeals to emotions by demonstrating the emotional appeal that offers reliability and competence of Chesterfield to his son.

Chesterfield is earnest, claiming that he has "doubts whether it is any purpose" to offer such advice to his son, as he understands "how unwelcome advice generally is," especially when coming from "moroseness, the imperiousness, or the garrulity of old age." While Chesterfield does seem to scold his son throughout the letter with regards to his dependence upon his father and his lack of education, Chesterfield thoughtfully assures his son that he is "convinced that you will act right, upon more noble and generous principles." Because of this, it is evident that Chesterfields supports the concept that while one may make mistakes and fail to understand the teachings of those elder to them, they must not be so ignorant as to completely brush off one’s offered advice due to the common, tiring implications that those who are experienced know

best.

Assuredly, Chesterfield reveals his parental values through the letter to his son by revealing that he believes in the vulnerability of youth and the credibility within experienced adults to guide the younger miscreants of the world; the necessity of an education and a well-rounded work ethic; and the naivety of young age and his son's competence to make the right choices in life.