Chapter 6 Rome (1859-1860) Summary

Adams moves to Dresden to continue studying German and to attempt to pick up further "accidental education" as he had when he engaged with Beethoven at the end of his stay in Berlin. War breaks out between France and Germany over Italy. His sister, now married to Charles Kuhn, arrives in Switzerland and meets with Adams. For a time, he lets her decide on the course of his education: "No woman had ever driven him wrong, no man had ever driven him right." She identifies with the Italian cause, and as soon as the armistice is declared, they take a trip to Italy. This is another accidental education for Adams. The grandeur and the enduring ancient history present in Rome make a strong impression on him, as does a later, more "accidental" experience. Passing through the wrecked landscape, and...