The Metaphysical Club: A Story of Ideas in America Chapter Summary & Analysis - Part 1, Chapter 2 The Abolitionist, Section 1 Summary

Part 1, Chapter 2 The Abolitionist, Section 1 Summary

Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr. was only 17 years old when he entered Harvard as a freshman. He received Emerson's writing for his birthday and nine months later published an essay in the Harvard Magazine touting Emerson. He felt the inspiration he got from Emerson would help him achieve great things in his life.

Within two years, Holmes held the position of Editor for the Harvard Magazine and changed the tone of the magazine to support abolitionism, women's admission to Harvard and reform of the curriculum. Dr. Holmes received a letter from the President of Harvard regarding the radical changes in the magazine since young Holmes took over.

Holmes lived the best of both worlds. He was social and extroverted like his father when it was time to play. However, when work was necessary, Holmes emulated Emerson in his need for solitude. He had scientific views of the world around him...
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