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Cover of The Getting of Wisdom

The Getting of Wisdom

Written by Henry Handel Richardson

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Young womenBildungsromansAutobiographical fictionAustraliaMelbourne (Vic.)

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About this book

"The Getting of Wisdom" by Henry Handel Richardson is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the protagonist, Laura Rambotham, who experiences the trials of growing up and navigating the complexities of school life as she enters a new boarding school, a significant step away from her childhood home. At the start of the novel, we meet Laura and her siblings playing in their garden, showcasing the innocence of childhood. However, this idyllic atmosphere quickly shifts when Laura is called inside to try on a new dress for her first day at school, hinting at her looming transition into the adult world. The opening portrays Laura's relationship with her mother, the conflicts arising from her rebellious nature, and her deep sense of identity tied to both her family and the expectations she faces in her new environment. The setting contrasts the carefree moments of childhood with the stern reality of school life ahead, setting the stage for themes of personal growth, individuality, and the pursuit of wisdom that will unfold throughout the novel.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in The Getting of Wisdom, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • intermediate
  • Introspective
  • Melancholy
  • Observational

Henry Handel Richardson's "The Getting of Wisdom" is a poignant bildungsroman chronicling Laura Rambotham's tumultuous years at a strict Melbourne boarding school in the late 19th century. From her initial innocence, Laura grapples with the rigid expectations of academic life, the complexities of social hierarchies, and the burgeoning awareness of her own unconventional artistic temperament. The novel delves into her struggles with conformity, the pain of ostracism, and her search for an authentic identity amidst a world that often prioritizes decorum over genuine intellect or creativity. Ultimately, it explores the ambiguous nature of 'wisdom' – whether it is gained through academic success and social acceptance, or through the often painful process of self-discovery and artistic integrity.

“It was not for nothing that she had been called 'the most original girl in the school'.”

Key themes

Individuality vs. Conformity
This is the central conflict of the novel, explored through Laura's constant struggle to reconcile her unique personality, imaginative mind, and artistic aspirations with the rigid expectations of the boarding school and broader Victorian society. Her inability or unwillingness to conform leads to social ostracism and emotional pain, forcing her to choose between her authentic self and acceptance.
The Nature of Wisdom and Education
The novel directly questions what constitutes 'wisdom' and how it is acquired. Is it through academic achievement, social graces, or a deeper, often painful, process of self-knowledge and artistic understanding? The school's curriculum emphasizes facts and decorum, but Laura's 'getting of wisdom' comes from her experiences of failure, isolation, and the embrace of her inner world, suggesting a critique of conventional education.
Artistic Temperament and Creative Expression
Laura possesses an innate artistic sensibility, particularly for music and imaginative storytelling, which she struggles to reconcile with her environment. Her creative impulses are often misunderstood or suppressed by the school, leading her to seek solace and expression in her inner world. The novel highlights the unique challenges faced by artists, especially women, in a society that values practicality over profound creative insight.

Worth discussing

What is Richardson's definition of 'wisdom' as explored through Laura's journey? Is it achieved by the end of the novel?

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