Secondly, let us consider what use we can make of even one
selected classic. I refer you back to the work of an old
schoolmaster, quoted in my first lecture:
I believe, if the truth were known, men would be astonished at
the small amount of learning with which a high degree of
culture is compatible. In a moment of enthusiasm I ventured
once to tell my 'English set' that if they could really master
the ninth book of "Paradise Lost," so as to rise to the height
of its great argument and incorporate all its beauties in
themselves, they would at one blow, by virtue of that alone,
become highly cultivated men.... More and more various learning
might raise them to the same height by different paths, but
could hardly raise them higher.
I beg your attention for the exact words: 'to rise to the height
of its great argument and _incorporate all its beauties in
themselves._' There you have it--'to incorporate.' Do you
remember that saying of Wordsworth's, casually dropped in
conversation, but preserved for us by Hazlitt?--'It is in the
highest degree unphilosophic to call language or diction the
dress of our thoughts.... It is the _incarnation_ of our
thoughts.' Even so, I maintain to you, the first business of a
learner in literature is to get complete hold of some undeniable
masterpiece and incorporate it, incarnate it. And, I repeat,
there are a few great works for you to choose from: works
approved for you by ancient and catholic judgment.