Question

Seeking and sharing knowledge about things is perceived as a quality and not a trait that needs to be curbed. Analyse why the Professor’s knowledge made this quality turn sour.

Answer 1

Knowledge is generally considered a positive quality because it helps a person learn, grow and help others. However, Professor Quelch’s knowledge became unpleasant because he constantly tried to prove that he knew more than everyone else. He interrupted lessons, corrected his instructors and gave unnecessary explanations. He did not consider the situation or the feelings of others before speaking.

For instance, when Corporal Turnbull was explaining the hand grenade, Quelch interrupted him and provided additional information. Although his facts were correct, his behaviour made Turnbull feel embarrassed and irritated. Similarly, his continuous display of knowledge annoyed his colleagues. Thus, the problem was not his knowledge but the way he used it. His lack of humility and social awareness turned his admirable quality into arrogance.