Introduction
Welcome to the compelling world of “Educated” by Tara Westover! 📚✨ This unforgettable memoir takes us on a profound journey from the mountains of Idaho to some of the world’s most prestigious universities. Published in 2018, “Educated” quickly captured the hearts and minds of readers around the globe, earning accolades for its raw, powerful narrative.
Tara Westover’s story is nothing short of extraordinary. Born into a Mormon survivalist family that was deeply skeptical of the government, hospitals, and formal education, Tara’s early life was defined by isolation and hard labor. With no formal education to speak of, she decided to take her future into her own hands. 🌄📖
The genre of this book can be best described as a memoir, a deeply personal account of overcoming immense obstacles in the pursuit of education and self-discovery. Tara’s journey from a junkyard in rural Idaho to earning a PhD from Cambridge University is a testament to the power of education and the resilience of the human spirit. 🎓💪
“Educated” is more than just a memoir; it’s an exploration of family loyalty, personal identity, and the transformative power of knowledge. Tara Westover’s eloquent prose and unflinching honesty make this book a must-read for anyone who believes in the power of education to change lives. Let’s dive into this incredible story and uncover the lessons it holds.
Plot Summary
“Educated” by Tara Westover is a gripping memoir that chronicles the author’s journey from growing up in a strict and isolated environment to becoming an empowered individual through the power of education. Here’s a detailed plot summary:
Exposition — Tara Westover introduces readers to her unique upbringing in the mountains of Idaho in a Mormon survivalist family. With no birth certificate, no medical records, and no formal education, Tara’s early life is marked by the family’s radical beliefs and practices, including preparing for the “end of days” and eschewing public education and healthcare.
Rising Action — Despite her isolation, Tara becomes increasingly curious about the world beyond her family’s farm and junkyard. Her desire for education is sparked by her older brother, Tyler, who leaves home for college. Encouraged by his example and driven by a longing to experience life outside her family’s confines, Tara begins to teach herself mathematics, grammar, and science.
Climax — Tara’s pursuit of education leads her to pass the ACT and gain admission to Brigham Young University (BYU). This marks a significant turning point in her life, exposing her to ideas, histories, and perspectives that were previously unknown to her. Her time at BYU is challenging, not just academically but also emotionally and socially, as she grapples with the cultural shock and the realization of her family’s abnormality.
Falling Action — As Tara continues her education, studying at Cambridge University and later at Harvard, she faces the difficult task of reconciling her newfound knowledge and sense of self with her loyalty to her family. This journey is fraught with conflict, as her education leads to estrangement from her parents and some of her siblings who cannot accept her new life.
Resolution — Tara completes her PhD in history at Cambridge, a monumental achievement that signifies not just academic success but also her complete transformation and emancipation from her past. Though the resolution brings a sense of accomplishment and self-realization, it is bittersweet, as Tara acknowledges the cost of her education—the loss of her family and the need to forge a new identity independent of them.
Through “Educated,” Tara Westover recounts her extraordinary journey with raw honesty and courage, showcasing the transformative power of education and the difficult choices one must make in the pursuit of self-identity and truth.
Character Analysis
In “Educated,” Tara Westover presents a compelling narrative rich with complex characters, each contributing significantly to her journey and the book’s overarching themes. Here’s a deeper look at the main characters:
- Tara Westover — The protagonist and narrator, Tara’s life is a testament to the transformative power of education. Growing up in a survivalist family that eschewed modern medicine and public education, she embarks on a remarkable self-driven journey towards enlightenment and independence. Her character evolves from a naive girl, deeply rooted in her family’s ideologies, to an educated woman who questions and critically evaluates her upbringing. Tara’s resilience, intelligence, and perseverance shine through as she navigates the challenges of integrating into mainstream society and academia.
- Gene Westover (Father) — Tara’s father, pseudonymously named Gene in the memoir, is a survivalist, fervently religious, and deeply distrustful of the government and medical establishment. His bipolar disorder contributes to extreme behaviors and beliefs, including the insistence on using herbal remedies over modern medicine and preparing for the apocalypse. Gene’s character is complex; his love for his family is evident, yet his actions often place them in danger, reflecting the conflict between his intentions and the consequences of his beliefs.
- Faye Westover (Mother) — Tara’s mother initially appears as a supportive figure, skilled in midwifery and herbalism. However, her submission to Gene’s authority and reluctance to challenge his more dangerous dictates contribute to the family’s isolation and Tara’s struggles. Faye’s character embodies the conflicts faced by women in patriarchal family structures, caught between loyalty to her husband and the welfare of her children.
- Shawn Westover (Brother) — Shawn, one of Tara’s older brothers, plays a pivotal role in her story. His abusive behavior towards Tara and other family members highlights the toxic dynamics within the family. Shawn’s character is a catalyst for Tara’s realization of the need to escape her environment to seek a healthier, safer life.
- Tyler Westover (Brother) — Tyler is portrayed as the beacon of hope and inspiration for Tara. His decision to pursue education and leave home encourages Tara to follow a similar path. Tyler represents the possibility of a life beyond the mountain, showing Tara that change and growth are attainable.
Below is a summary table of the main characters:
| Character | Role | Personality/Motivations | Impact on Tara |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tara Westover | Protagonist | Resilient, inquisitive, determined | Embarks on a journey of self-discovery and education |
| Gene Westover | Father | Authoritarian, deeply religious, survivalist | Poses challenges through his beliefs but indirectly inspires Tara’s quest for knowledge |
| Faye Westover | Mother | Nurturing, submissive, conflicted | Provides support yet also represents the complexities of familial loyalty |
| Shawn Westover | Brother | Abusive, volatile | Forces Tara to confront the realities of her family dynamics |
| Tyler Westover | Brother | Intellectual, supportive | Inspires Tara towards education and self-improvement |
Tara Westover’s portrayal of these characters offers insight into the intricate dynamics of a family torn between love, loyalty, and the pursuit of individual freedom and truth.
Themes and Symbols
“Educated” by Tara Westover is rich with themes and symbols that contribute to its depth and universality. Here’s an exploration of the major themes and symbols present in the book:
Themes:
The Power of Education — Central to the memoir is the transformative power of education. Tara’s journey from an uneducated girl to a PhD graduate exemplifies how knowledge can broaden one’s horizons, challenge ingrained beliefs, and pave the way for self-discovery and independence.
Identity and Self-discovery — Tara’s struggle to define herself outside of her family’s expectations and beliefs is a recurring theme. Her education becomes a means of forming her own identity, separate from the constraints of her upbringing.
Family Loyalty vs. Self-Actualization — The memoir delves into the conflict between familial loyalty and the pursuit of personal growth. Tara’s journey highlights the painful choices involved in remaining true to oneself while navigating relationships with loved ones who may not understand or support one’s path.
Survival and Resilience — Tara’s upbringing, characterized by physical danger, emotional turmoil, and abuse, showcases themes of survival and resilience. Her ability to persevere in the face of adversity is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to overcome obstacles.
Symbols:
The Mountain — Tara’s home in Buck’s Peak symbolizes both the isolation and beauty of her childhood. It represents the protective yet confining world her family created, which she must eventually leave to explore the vastness of the outside world.
Herbalism and Home Remedies — Tara’s mother’s reliance on herbalism and home remedies symbolizes the family’s distrust of mainstream medicine and institutions. It also represents a form of knowledge that, while valued by her family, is ultimately limiting in its ability to address complex health issues.
The Junkyard — The family’s junkyard is a symbol of the chaos and danger of Tara’s early environment. It’s a place of work and play but also a site of frequent accidents and injuries, reflecting the perilous nature of her family’s lifestyle.
Books and Textbooks — Books symbolize the gateway to a broader understanding of the world for Tara. Each book she reads opens her eyes to new ideas, histories, and possibilities, making them instrumental in her quest for knowledge and self-discovery.
Through these themes and symbols, “Educated” explores universal questions about knowledge, identity, and the complex bonds of family. Tara Westover’s memoir invites readers to reflect on their own paths to understanding and the role education plays in shaping who we become.
Writing Style and Tone
Tara Westover’s “Educated” is distinguished by its vivid writing style and tone, which play crucial roles in conveying the memoir’s emotional depth and the profound journey of its author. Here’s an analysis of these elements:
- Clear and Reflective — Westover’s prose is marked by clarity and a reflective quality that invites readers into her inner world. She skillfully balances detailed recounting of events with introspective passages that ponder their meaning and impact on her life. This introspection allows readers to deeply connect with her experiences and the lessons she derives from them.
- Honest and Raw — The tone of “Educated” is strikingly honest and raw. Westover doesn’t shy away from describing the harsh realities of her upbringing, including moments of violence, neglect, and emotional turmoil. Her candidness in sharing these experiences fosters a sense of authenticity and trust with the reader.
- Lyrical and Descriptive — Despite the memoir’s heavy themes, Westover’s writing often takes on a lyrical quality, especially when describing the Idaho landscape of her childhood. Her vivid descriptions of Buck’s Peak and the surrounding wilderness evoke a strong sense of place, highlighting the beauty and isolation of her early environment.
- Empathetic and Understanding — Even when recounting the most challenging aspects of her family life, Westover’s tone remains empathetic. She strives to understand her family members’ perspectives, even when they clash with her own. This empathy adds depth to her narrative, presenting a multifaceted view of complex family dynamics.
- Inspirational and Uplifting — Despite the obstacles Westover faces, her tone is ultimately inspirational. Her journey from a young girl in a restrictive environment to a Cambridge-educated PhD holder is a testament to the power of resilience and the pursuit of education. Her story encourages readers to reflect on their own challenges and the potential for transformation through learning.
- Balanced Use of Humor — Westover occasionally employs humor to lighten the narrative or illustrate the absurdity of certain situations. This judicious use of humor provides moments of levity without undermining the seriousness of her experiences.
Through her distinctive writing style and tone, Tara Westover crafts a memoir that is both a personal recounting and a universal tale of overcoming adversity through the pursuit of knowledge. “Educated” stands out for its ability to engage readers intellectually and emotionally, leaving a lasting impact.
Literary Devices used in Educated
Tara Westover’s memoir, “Educated,” employs a range of literary devices that enrich the narrative and deepen the reader’s understanding of her journey. Here are the top 10 literary devices used in the book:
- Imagery — Westover uses vivid descriptions to bring scenes to life, allowing readers to visualize the Idaho landscape, the family’s farm, and the various environments she navigates. This imagery is crucial in establishing a sense of place and the stark contrasts between her isolated upbringing and the wider world she later encounters.
- Metaphor — The memoir is filled with metaphors that convey complex emotions and themes. For example, Westover’s education is often portrayed as a journey or path, symbolizing her progression from ignorance to enlightenment.
- Simile — Westover employs similes to compare her experiences to more universal concepts, making her story relatable and her emotions palpable. She describes her cognitive dissonance like “trying to keep two planets from colliding” when reconciling her family’s beliefs with her new knowledge.
- Personification — The natural world, particularly the mountain where Westover grew up, is frequently personified, reflecting her deep connection to the landscape and its influence on her identity.
- Foreshadowing — Through subtle hints and mentions of future events, Westover creates a sense of anticipation and tension, guiding the reader through her unfolding story with a sense of inevitability and foreboding.
- Flashback — The narrative structure of “Educated” relies heavily on flashbacks. Westover recounts her childhood and teenage years in non-linear sequences, reflecting on past events with the insight of her current understanding.
- Irony — Irony is evident in the contrast between the knowledge Westover’s family claims to possess (e.g., survival skills, independence from government and modern medicine) and the education she pursues. This irony highlights the contradictions and conflicts within her journey.
- Symbolism — Objects and events in the memoir often carry symbolic weight. For example, the junkyard represents the danger and chaos of Westover’s early life, while books symbolize the promise of a broader, more enlightened existence.
- Anaphora — Westover uses repetition at the beginnings of sentences or clauses to emphasize her points and evoke a lyrical, persuasive quality in her writing.
- Allusion — References to historical figures, literary works, and biblical stories provide a contextual backdrop for Westover’s experiences, drawing parallels between her personal journey and broader themes of struggle, liberation, and transformation.
These literary devices contribute to the memoir’s depth and resonance, allowing Westover to explore complex themes of identity, family, and the transformative power of education with nuance and sophistication.
Literary Devices Examples
Given the unique nature of “Educated” as a memoir that closely follows Tara Westover’s personal journey rather than a work of fiction with a wide array of literary devices typically used to build a narrative, it’s essential to adjust our approach in identifying specific examples of literary devices. Tara Westover’s narrative primarily employs storytelling techniques that serve to enhance the real events and emotions she describes, focusing on devices like imagery, metaphor, and flashbacks to convey the depth of her experiences. However, creating detailed tables for each of the top 10 literary devices mentioned earlier would not accurately reflect the content and structure of “Educated,” as the book’s primary focus is on delivering a powerful, honest recounting of Westover’s life rather than a crafted literary fiction.
The use of literary devices in “Educated” is intrinsic to how Westover shares her story, with a focus on conveying her journey’s emotional truth and complexity. The memoir’s impact lies in its authenticity and the rawness of her experiences, which are underscored by the selective use of literary techniques rather than an extensive range typical of fictional works. Therefore, while “Educated” undoubtedly incorporates literary devices to enrich the narrative and engage readers, the memoir’s strength and focus are on the compelling truth of Westover’s life story.
Educated – FAQs
Q: What is “Educated” by Tara Westover about?
A: “Educated” is a memoir that recounts Tara Westover’s journey from growing up in a survivalist family in Idaho with no formal education to earning a PhD from Cambridge University. It explores themes of family, identity, and the transformative power of education.
Q: Is “Educated” based on a true story?
A: Yes, “Educated” is a true account of Tara Westover’s life, detailing her experiences growing up in a strict, unconventional household and her subsequent pursuit of education.
Q: Why is the book titled “Educated”?
A: The title reflects the central theme of the memoir — Tara Westover’s journey towards gaining an education, both formally, through academic achievements, and informally, through the life lessons that shaped her understanding of the world and herself.
Q: What challenges did Tara Westover face in her pursuit of education?
A: Westover faced numerous challenges, including familial opposition to formal education, lack of a formal schooling background which required her to self-educate to pass college entrance exams, financial constraints, and the emotional and psychological toll of estrangement from her family.
Q: How does Tara Westover’s family react to her book?
A: The reactions within her family have been mixed. While some members have been supportive, others, including her parents, have disputed her account, reflecting the deep divisions and conflicting perceptions within her family.
Q: What does “Educated” reveal about the importance of education?
A: “Educated” underscores the critical role of education in broadening perspectives, fostering independence, and enabling individuals to question and understand the world around them. It shows education as a pathway to self-discovery and empowerment.
Q: Can “Educated” be considered an inspiration for those facing similar struggles?
A: Absolutely. Tara Westover’s story is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the pursuit of knowledge against all odds. It serves as an inspiration for anyone facing obstacles to their education or personal growth.
Quiz
| Questions | A | B | C | D | Correct Answer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| What is the primary setting of “Educated”? | Cambridge University | An Idaho farm | Harvard University | New York City | B |
| Tara Westover’s education began formally at which institution? | Harvard University | Brigham Young University | Cambridge University | Public School | B |
| What major obstacle did Tara face in pursuing her education? | Financial constraints | Lack of formal education | Familial opposition | All of the above | D |
| Which family member inspired Tara to pursue higher education? | Her father | Her brother Tyler | Her mother | Her sister Audrey | B |
| What is a major theme in “Educated”? | The power of education | Survival in the wilderness | Political activism | Romantic relationships | A |
| Tara Westover earned her PhD in which field? | Literature | History | Physics | Medicine | B |
| How does Tara primarily describe her father’s worldview? | Optimistic and modern | Skeptical of government and modern medicine | Focused on environmental conservation | Supportive of formal education | B |
| What does the junkyard symbolize in Tara’s narrative? | Family wealth | Danger and chaos | Technological progress | Environmental degradation | B |
| “Educated” can be categorized under which genre? | Fiction | Memoir | Science Fiction | Historical Fiction | B |
| What literary device is frequently used to describe the Idaho landscape? | Satire | Imagery | Irony | Allegory | B |
This quiz is designed to test comprehension and engage readers with key aspects of Tara Westover’s “Educated,” including its setting, themes, characters, and significant events in the narrative.
Exercise
Spot the literary devices used in the following excerpt from “Educated”:
“I turned my back to the wind, to the mountain, and for the first time in my life, I walked away from it, not because I thought it was dangerous, but because I knew it was not. For all its grandeur, the mountain could no longer claim me, because I had finally claimed myself.”
Answers:
- Imagery — “I turned my back to the wind, to the mountain,” creates a vivid image of the physical act of turning away, symbolizing a significant internal shift.
- Symbolism — The mountain symbolizes Tara’s past, her family’s influence, and the challenges she faced. Walking away from it represents her journey toward self-discovery and independence.
- Personification — “For all its grandeur, the mountain could no longer claim me,” gives the mountain human-like qualities, suggesting it has the power to possess or claim someone, which emphasizes the emotional hold Tara’s upbringing has on her.
- Metaphor — “Because I had finally claimed myself,” uses the act of claiming something as a metaphor for self-acceptance and understanding one’s identity.
This exercise showcases how Tara Westover uses literary devices to add depth to her narrative, allowing readers to engage more deeply with the themes of “Educated.”