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Libanus Father

Decent Essays

On the mother’s side, the difference in upbringing also played a role in the two men’s attachment toward their mothers. Both men had fathers who faced an early death. Libanius’ mother was quite lenient in raising her children: My mother was a nice woman and feared the dishonesty of guardians and the litigation which would inevitably arise with them, and so she herself set out to be all in all to us. In general, she succeeded very well by dint of her exertions, but though she paid out fees to schoolmasters for us, she did not have the heart to get annoyed with her sleepyhead of a son, for she thought it was a loving mother's part never never to upset her child.
Libanius’ mother was hands on. In fear and suspicion of other guardians, she was the type of woman who believed she could do things on her own. She was “all in all” to Libanius, which could be read either she took on all the roles as both father and mother or she was everything her children. Being independent, was a trait Libanius acquired from his mother. This passage from Libanius shows that his mother was quite over protective. Which again, may have been a push factor for Libanius who sought a life that allowed him to get away from the protection of his mother. And her lenience, only made it easier for him to break away. Saying …show more content…

Looking at Libanius’ mother’s death, illuminates the more affectionate side of Libanius. Libanius grieves for his mother and recognizes what he has lost. “ For during their lifetime this really was my greatest pleasure...she rejoiced exceedingly whenever I returned to her with the sweat of my labours upon me.” Libanius shows how his mother’s affection is such that though he did not follow through what she envisioned him to be--that is, to settle down and stay with her, perhaps even start a family--she was supportive of whatever he made of himself. Libanius is not tied down to his mother but he did feel his

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