Mcluhan, Marshall (1911–1980)

John A. Xanthopoulos

Herbert Marshall McLuhan was born on July 21, 1911. The proud parents sent out announcements heralding the birth with the saying,“Unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given.” As a youngster, McLuhan was always quiet and retiring to the point of being antisocial. He had a great love of animals. “Rags,” an Airedale collie, was an integral and devotedly cared-for member of the family. In his earliest days at public school, McLuhan showed no promise as a future scholar. His report cards indicated marks ranging as low as 20% for spelling in Grade 3, borderline failures in other subjects, and few distinguished achievements other than in reading. At the end of Grade 6, he failed his year. But his mother Elsie, who was engaged in supply teaching at the time, prevailed on the teacher and school principal to give Marshall a chance in Grade 7. The ...

Users without subscription are not able to see the full content on this title. Please, subscribe or login to access all content on this website.