Frank Mccourt’s View of The 1940s Education in Ireland as Explained in His Book, Angela’s Ashes

The education in 1940s Ireland was not the best in my opinion. Children in the hospital were not allowed to read any books that were for personal pleasure or even socialize with other people. I think that interaction with other humans is important. Technology was also not very developed in the 1940s. Today, we have many resources to learn with. Our technology helps us learn in a more intuitive way. We have just about came to the point where paper books are barely used. I would much rather be educated today in 2014 America, then in 1940 Ireland.

In the story, the nun is very strict. She is always coming into their rooms checking on them and asking them to pray the rosary all the time. She does not want Francis and Patricia talking and reading together. The nun did not want them to even laugh! I think laughing is beneficial. It helps you think about what is good. (Page 1145)

When Francis and Patricia want to read poetry from Shakespeare, its not easy. They have to wait till early in the morning or late at night to recite the poetry. They have to do this because there won’t be any nuns or nurses out that early or late. Today, we can openly read any poetry or story without any worry. That children had to secretly read away from the people in the hospital. (Page 1148)

The children in the hospital can not wait till the nurses and nuns leave because they want to read new verses of poetry. These kids are sick and want to do something pleasuring to them. It is one of the only things they can do. I think that this is to harsh. I am glad that I do not have nuns that are that strict. (Page 1149)

The hospital is a place that I would not like to be. I would much rather be learning in today’s day and age because we have so many advantages. we would not have to worry about people finding out about you reading. These kids really have it hard. I am thankful to be living in 2014.

Towards the end of the story, Francis has to leave the hospital because of his bad behavior with Patricia. The nun said that he had a privilege to be at the Fever Hospital. His privilege was taken away because he was talking with a girl and reciting poetry. I think that this is harsh. It doesn’t make it any better when Patricia dies. He has no way of hearing poetry or stories. He also has to learn how to walk again. (Page 1153)

In conclusion, I would much rather be educated in 2014 America. We have so many advantages and technological advances, that I could never imagine learning without. The conditions were harsh and not pleasant. The boy and girl could not even talk or laugh. They also could not read anything together. This shows how much the world of education has changed.