Educated
A Comprehensive Review of Tara Westover's "Educated"
Tara Westover's memoir, "Educated," published in 2018, quickly became a literary sensation, lauded for its powerful narrative and profound insights into the human spirit. The book chronicles Westover's extraordinary journey from a secluded, survivalist family in rural Idaho to earning a PhD from the University of Cambridge. "Educated" is a compelling exploration of identity, family, and the transformative power of education.
The Context of Isolation
Tara Westover grew up in a family isolated from mainstream society. Her parents, particularly her father, distrusted the government, public education, and modern medicine. This extreme isolation set the stage for a unique and challenging upbringing, where formal schooling was non-existent, and medical emergencies were dealt with at home.
Tara Westover: A Brief Biography
Born in 1986, Tara Westover spent her early years in the mountains of Idaho, where her family operated a scrapyard. With no birth certificate or medical records, her early existence was almost invisible to the outside world. Westover's memoir details her struggle to break free from this isolation and pursue an education, despite numerous obstacles.
The Power of Education
One of the central themes of "Educated" is the transformative power of education. Westover's journey illustrates how knowledge can liberate and empower individuals to redefine their lives.
Example: The Leap to Higher Education
Westover’s first formal educational experience began at Brigham Young University (BYU), where she faced numerous challenges, including her lack of basic knowledge in subjects like algebra and world history. Despite these hurdles, her determination to succeed propelled her to eventually earn a PhD from Cambridge.
Identity and Self-Discovery
The memoir delves deeply into the theme of identity, exploring how Westover's sense of self evolved as she distanced herself from her family's beliefs and practices.
Example: The Struggle for Self-Definition
Westover's pursuit of education forced her to confront and question her upbringing, leading to a profound internal conflict between loyalty to her family and the need for personal growth. Her journey is marked by a series of revelations about herself and her family, culminating in her acceptance of a new, self-defined identity.
Family Loyalty and Betrayal
Westover’s relationship with her family is complex, characterized by deep love intertwined with feelings of betrayal and hurt. The memoir portrays the difficult choices she had to make regarding her familial ties.
Example: The Rift with Her Family
Westover's decision to pursue education created a significant rift with her father, who saw her actions as a betrayal of their way of life. This conflict intensified as she continued her academic journey, eventually leading to estrangement from most of her family.
Resilience and Determination
"Educated" is a testament to human resilience and the power of determination. Despite the numerous challenges she faced, Westover's perseverance enabled her to achieve her goals.
Example: Overcoming Academic and Personal Obstacles
From her initial struggles at BYU, where she had to teach herself basic academic skills, to the emotional turmoil of reconciling her past with her present, Westover’s journey is a powerful narrative of resilience. Her ability to overcome these obstacles underscores the memoir’s inspirational message.
Engaging and Honest Prose
Westover’s writing is both engaging and brutally honest, drawing readers into her world and experiences. Her narrative style combines vivid descriptions with introspective reflections, making the memoir both a compelling read and a thoughtful exploration
Example: Vivid Descriptions of Idaho
Westover's descriptions of her childhood home in Idaho are particularly evocative, painting a clear picture of the rugged landscape that shaped her early years. These passages not only set the scene but also highlight the contrast between her isolated upbringing and the broader world she eventually discovered.
Reflective and Introspective Tone
The memoir’s reflective tone adds depth to Westover’s story, allowing readers to understand her internal struggles and growth.
Example: Introspection on Family Dynamics
Throughout the book, Westover reflects on her family dynamics, providing insight into her parents’ motivations and the impact of their beliefs on her life. These reflections offer a nuanced perspective on the challenges of reconciling love for one’s family with the need for personal growth and independence.
Early Life and Family Dynamics
Westover’s early life is characterized by a combination of familial love and strict adherence to her father’s survivalist beliefs. This period laid the groundwork for the conflicts and challenges she would later face.
Example: The Influence of Her Father
Westover’s father, with his distrust of formal education and modern medicine, dominated her early life, shaping her worldview and limiting her opportunities. His influence is a recurring theme throughout the memoir, highlighting the tension between familial loyalty and personal ambition.
The Decision to Pursue Education
Westover’s decision to pursue education marked a pivotal turning point in her life, setting her on a path of self-discovery and transformation.
Example: Studying at BYU
Attending BYU was Westover’s first significant step into the outside world. Her initial struggles with basic academic concepts underscore the extent of her educational deprivation, but her rapid progress and eventual academic success highlight her determination and intelligence.
Academic Achievements and Personal Growth
Westover’s academic journey is marked by significant achievements, including earning a PhD from Cambridge. These accomplishments reflect not only her intellectual capabilities but also her personal growth and resilience.
Example: Earning a PhD
Westover’s journey to earning a PhD is a remarkable achievement, considering her lack of formal education during her childhood. Her success in academia is a testament to her dedication and the transformative power of education.
Influence on Readers and Society
"Educated" has had a profound impact on readers worldwide, inspiring many with its message of resilience and the importance of education.
Example: Inspiration for Non-Traditional Students
Westover’s story has resonated particularly with non-traditional students and those who have faced significant obstacles in their educational journeys. Her memoir serves as a powerful reminder that it is never too late to pursue one’s dreams and that education can be a path to personal liberation.
Broader Cultural Impact
The memoir has sparked discussions about the role of education, family dynamics, and personal growth, contributing to a broader understanding of these themes in contemporary society.
Example: Discussions on Educational Accessibility
"Educated" has highlighted the importance of making education accessible to all, regardless of their background. Westover’s experiences underscore the need for educational systems to support and accommodate students from diverse and challenging backgrounds.
"Educated" is more than just a memoir; it is a profound exploration of identity, resilience, and the transformative power of education. Tara Westover’s journey from a secluded, survivalist family to the halls of Cambridge University is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for growth and self-discovery. Her story serves as an inspiration to all who seek to overcome their circumstances and pursue their dreams, reminding us that education is not just about academic achievement but about the broader journey of understanding and self-empowerment.
