In his journeys, the speaker in “The Wanderer” learned many lessons. He talks about one of the lessons in lines 12–13, when he says
I know it truly / that it is in men a noble custom
That one should keep secure / his spirit chest (mind)

Why does the speaker believe this, and how has this belief shaped his actions? Answer these questions in a one- to two-paragraph written response. Be sure to support your ideas with evidence from the poem.

Question

In his journeys, the speaker in “The Wanderer” learned many lessons. He talks about one of the lessons in lines 12–13, when he says
I know it truly / that it is in men a noble custom
That one should keep secure / his spirit chest (mind)

Why does the speaker believe this, and how has this belief shaped his actions? Answer these questions in a one- to two-paragraph written response. Be sure to support your ideas with evidence from the poem.