Parent Guide > Ode on a Distant Prospect of Eton College

by Thomas Gray 1747

Welcome to the parent guide for this text! Read below to find out about what your child is reading in class and how you can support him/her at home.

This week in class, we’re reading "Ode on a Distant Prospect of Eton College" by Thomas Gray.

Thomas Gray (1716-1771) was an English poet and scholar. His poem, "Ode on a Distant Prospect of Eton College," is famous for coining the phrase "ignorance is bliss." In it, the speaker considers his feelings about the prospect of going to Eton College, an independent boarding school.

As we read, we will be discussing the theme of Growing Up as it relates to the text. We are trying to answer this big question :

"Why should we value our youth?"

Ways to support your child:

  • Ask your child about this poem at home:
    • What was "Ode on a Distant Prospect of Eton College" about?
    • What did you learn about Growing Up?
  • Watch Laura Carstensen: Older people are happier at home with your child.