Virtue - “The Babees’ Book”
Furnivall writes, "But oh, young babies, whom blood royal hath endowed with grace, comeliness, and high ability, it is on you I call to know this book, for it were great pity but that ye added to sovereign beauty virtue and good manners." Furnivall's target audience comprises young people whom he encourages to embrace dignity in their engagements. It is commendable for the young children to be straightforward and honorable for it is a manifestation of virtue. Furnivall outlines the etiquette which would enable his audience to lead a virtuous life. He underscores ethos through a convincing tone which underscores the essence of poise in young peoples’ immediate and future lives.
Counsel - “The ABC of Aristotle”
Furnivall writes, “ Be not-/A too Amorous, too Adventurous, nor Argue too much/B too Bold, too Busy, nor Babble too long/C too Courteous, too Cruel, nor Care too sorely.” Aristotle underscores the essence of being moderate in one’s character. The structure follows an Acroustatic model which amplifies the rhythm of the composition. Aristotle main ideology is to underscore the import of avoiding extreme behaviors. Ability to control the adverse behaviors which Aristotle disapproves would enable one to control his/ her desires.
Wisdom - “Symon’s Lesson of Wisdom for All Manner Children”
Wisdom is vital: "Child I warn thee in all wise/ That thou tell truth and make no lies/ Child, be not forward, be not proud,/But hold up thy head and speak aloud; And when nay man speaketh to thee/Doff they hood and bow they knee." Symon encourages children to be prudent and to avoid pride. Humility is an indicator of children's astuteness. Young age should not discourage children from being judicious. Symon insists that children should embrace wisdom early in life so they will be honorable adults. Launching lessons about wisdom early increases the likelihood of children being intelligent adults.
