Reflections on the Best Class I Took at HBS: A Journey with Robert Coles

During my time at the prestigious Harvard Business School (HBS), the class that stands out the most was one from a distinguished professor named Robert Coles. This course was not just an academic phenomenon but a profound personal journey that challenges the way one perceives not only literature but also education itself. Through the lens of Coles' teachings and the works he shared, my understanding of education evolved significantly.

Robert Coles: A Living Legend

Professor Coles was a remarkable individual, born in 1925 and by the time I took his class in 2001, he was already in his late sixties. His dedication to teaching went beyond mere necessity; it stemmed from an inherent love for imparting knowledge. Perhaps one of the most fascinating aspects of Coles' career is the impact he had on children's mental health in the 1950s and 1960s.

His initial work as a child psychiatrist brought him to New Orleans, where he witnessed and documented the groundbreaking story of Ruby Bridges. Bridges became the first African American student to attend an all-white public school in the South. Coles' depiction of how Bridges courageously navigated the white hostility and prejudice was a testament to his humanitarian spirit. His work, published in the Pulitzer Prize-winning series Children of Crisis, captured the essence of the civil rights movement and human resilience.

The Necromancer of Words: Creating a Class at HBS

In 2001, Coles chose to share his extensive knowledge and literary insights with a carefully selected group of twenty students through a unique educational setting. The class meetings were not held in a traditional lecture hall but in a cozy living room within Adams House, which further emphasized the intimate and personal nature of the discussions. The atmosphere was inviting, with students sitting in a circle on comfortable couches and chairs, ready to engage with the material that Coles had meticulously curated.

The course title, "Literature and Children," was an invitation to explore the complex interplay between literature and education. Our weekly readings included a mix of classic and contemporary works. We delved into the musings of renowned authors such as J.D. Salinger, Toni Morrison, Leo Tolstoy, Walker Percy, Flannery O'Connor, and Raymond Carver. Each work offered a unique lens through which to examine the challenges and triumphs of education.

A Scholar’s Legacy and a Writer's Quest

What set Coles' instruction apart was his personal connection to the authors and his insightful analysis of their works. He shared personal anecdotes and stories, often turning his evenings into a mini-debate or discussion session. For instance, his take on Catcher in the Rye was particularly intriguing. As a high school student, I had been drawn to Salinger's portrayal of Holden Caulfield's disinhibited world. However, through Coles' eyes, the novel revealed a different narrative—Caulfield's profound psychological struggles. This newfound perspective not only enriched my understanding of the text but also highlighted the importance of context in literature.

A Professor as a Mentor and Friend

One of the most memorable aspects of the class was Coles' approach as a mentor. He cared deeply about our progress and personal development, often responding to our essays with thoughtful comments and encouragement. This personal connection was not merely limited to the written word. His consistent appearance in the classroom in the same old sweater, complete with worn-out elbows, added to the charm and authenticity of the experience. It was evident that Coles did not merely impart knowledge but nurtured a learning environment that valued individual growth and self-reflection.

The Impact of the Course: Reflections and Insights

The class with Coles at HBS was more than just a semester of learnings; it was a transformative journey that expanded my horizons. It taught me to approach literature with a deeper empathy and an understanding of the various audiences who might read it. This experience not only influenced my academic pursuits but also enhanced my personal and professional growth. Coles' teachings on education and literature continue to shape my perspective to this day, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of his unique classroom.

The legacy of Professor Robert Coles is one of compassion, dedication, and the belief in the transformative power of literature. His class at HBS stands as a testament to the magic of education and the profound impact that a single teacher can have on a student's life.