The Confessions of Jean-Jacques Rousseau
How does Rousseau describe his childhood character and his family’s role in its formation?
How does Rousseau describe his childhood character and his family’s role in its formation?
How does Rousseau describe his childhood character and his family’s role in its formation?
In 1712, Jean-Jacques is born to his parents in Geneva. He has a rough go of it growing up, having lost his mom and dad to childbirth and prison, respectively. Rousseau grows up in his Uncle Bernard's charge. Although willing to be the boy's guardian and appreciating the companionship for his son -- Bernard Jr., -- Uncle Bernard is unwilling to go out of his way to provide for his nephew. Thus, Rousseau finds himself seeking an apprenticeship as a teenager in order to learn a trade and to earn some food and a place to sleep. He's on his own. As Rousseau works for his master engraver, he quickly becomes disillusioned about the business. He doesn't have the patience or passion to become an engraver, so he starts slacking off.