“Of Truth” is the opening essay in Francis Bacon’s Essays (first published in 1597 and later expanded). In this essay, Bacon examines why human beings often prefer falsehood and illusion instead of truth.
The essay explores the philosophical, psychological, and moral value of truth in human life.
About the Author
Francis Bacon (1561–1626) was an English philosopher, statesman, and essayist. He is regarded as the father of empiricism and modern scientific thinking.
Bacon’s essays are known for:
- brevity
- aphoristic style
- philosophical depth
- practical wisdom
Opening Line of the Essay
The essay begins with the famous question:
“What is truth? said jesting Pilate; and would not stay for an answer.”
This reference to Pontius Pilate from the Bible shows that people often ask philosophical questions without seriously seeking answers.
Paragraph-Wise Summary
Paragraph 1 – Human Love for Lies
Bacon begins by discussing how people often avoid truth. Although truth is valuable, many individuals prefer lies because lies make life more interesting and comfortable.
People sometimes mix truth with falsehood to make their beliefs more pleasing.
Truth may be harsh, while lies provide emotional comfort.
Paragraph 2 – Truth as Light
Bacon compares truth to daylight and lies to artificial lighting.
Daylight shows things clearly, while candlelight and coloured lights may appear more attractive but distort reality.
This metaphor suggests that:
- truth reveals reality clearly
- falsehood creates illusion
Truth is pure and natural, while lies are decorative but deceptive.
Paragraph 3 – Truth in Philosophy and Religion
Bacon explains that truth has three stages:
- discovering truth
- understanding truth
- believing truth
He argues that searching for truth is the greatest pleasure of the human mind.
Truth leads human beings closer to divine wisdom.
The pursuit of truth is the highest intellectual activity.
Paragraph 4 – Moral Importance of Truth
Bacon condemns lying as a form of moral weakness.
A person who lies deliberately shows corruption of character.
Truthfulness creates trust and moral integrity in society.
Truth is the foundation of justice and ethical life.
Conclusion of the Essay
Bacon concludes by asserting that truth gives human life dignity and stability.
Although lies may seem attractive, truth ultimately provides lasting happiness and moral strength.
Truth elevates human life both intellectually and morally.
Major Themes
- Truth vs Falsehood
- Human attraction to illusion
- Moral value of honesty
- Philosophical search for truth
Important Metaphors
- Daylight – truth and clarity
- Candlelight – illusion and false beauty
- Pearl metaphor – truth’s simple beauty
Style of Bacon’s Essays
- aphoristic statements
- compact sentences
- philosophical reflections
- use of metaphors and examples
Bacon’s style is often described as concise, intellectual, and persuasive.
Critical Appreciation
- A classic philosophical essay.
- Combines philosophy with practical wisdom.
- Explains human psychology with clarity.
- Encourages intellectual honesty.
Significance of the Essay
- introduces Bacon’s philosophical thought
- promotes rational thinking
- emphasises moral responsibility
- remains relevant in modern society
Quick Revision Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Author | Francis Bacon |
| Essay | Of Truth |
| First Published | 1597 |
| Genre | Philosophical Essay |
| Main Theme | Truth vs Falsehood |
| Famous Line | “What is truth? said jesting Pilate.” |
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