Journal: Bibliotheca Sacra
Volume: BSAC 56:224 (Oct 1899)
Article: Theodore Dwight Woolsey
Author: Jacob Cooper

BSac 56:224 (Oct 1899) p. 607

Theodore Dwight Woolsey

Professor Jacob Cooper

The force of character a man possesses is measured by the depth and permanency of the impression made upon those with whom he comes in contact. For any kind of power exerts an influence in exact proportion to its amount, whether acting on material or spiritual nature. Weak forces may by a sudden effort create an impression greater than is justified by their amount; but this is evanescent, since there is not enough in reserve for continued action. And strong forces by an unsteady application disappoint, because what is gained at the time of their exertion is lost by intermission. But that which continues without abatement, calm and steady, never loses what it has gained; and further increases the effect of each act by the constancy in the pursuit of one unaltered purpose.

These facts are very apparent in the influence which men exert upon those who are closest to them and can test their real nature. So far from the adage proving true in such cases, that “familiarity breeds contempt,” the closer we get to a really strong nature the more are we moved by its power, because it is not bolstered up by pretense.

BSac 56:224 (Oct 1899) p. 608

If these principles be true, Theodore Dwight Woolsey was a great man, no matter what be the standard by which we measure greatness. For among the very large number of pupils who came under his influence and with the best opportunities to observe him closely, there has been, so far as the writer’s knowledge extends, but one opinion. Of this multitude there have been strong characters; men who have filled most exalted positions in every department of life, and have given their best services to the betterment of mankind. These with one consent acknowledge their indebtedness to this instructor with a heartiness which has been seldom equaled, and perhaps never excelled. Among the many great teachers we have had in our country to whom multitudes rise up to render homage, we can safely say there has not been his equal. Nor do we believe that Jowett, Arnold, Cousin, Schleiermacher, or Abelard left a stronger or more abiding impression upon those whom they instructed. At this lapse of time since his life as a teacher ended, it cannot be the glamour through which youth views its favorite; for most of his pupils have passed middle life, and many are old. Yet the feeling toward him is more strong, if that were possible, than when they sat as learners at his feet. The question naturally arises, Where were the hidings of this man’s power?

In a casual meeting with President Woolsey at the period of his greatest vigor, one saw nothing striking in his personal appearance; or, if so, not in the way of attractiveness. To such as did not know him he seeme...