Discuss how Bacon's essay "of great place" reflects his practical wisdom
Answers
Francis Bacon is an Elizabethan essayist. His essays are loaded with practical wisdom. In his essays he expresses a clear understanding of the affairs of the world and offers an insight regarding the problems faced by men in their lives. His essays also teach morality and its practical use.
In the essay "Of Great Place" he tells us that men in a great place are servants three times. They are the servants of the ruler or state, of fame and of business. He comments on the strangeness of the desire of the people to seek power and lose their liberty. He further talks about the four vices of authority and how they can be avoided.
One should avoid delays by working according to a schedule, avoid corruption by refusing to take bribes and stopping people from offering bribes. A man should clearly explain his intentions so that suspicions do not rise. The person should avoid roughness as far as possible. Finally, a man should express official rigour when discharging his official duties.