Meaning: The quote "Just about this time, when in imagination I was so great a warrior, I had good use in real life for more strength, as I was no longer taken to school by the nurse, but instead had myself to protect my brother, two years my junior." is a reflection by Georg Brandes, a Danish critic and scholar, on a pivotal moment in his life. In this quote, Brandes reminisces about a period in his childhood when he transitioned from a world of imagination and make-believe to a reality where he had to assume a role of responsibility and protection for his younger brother.

Georg Brandes was known for his influential contributions to the fields of literature and literary criticism. He was a proponent of realism and naturalism in literature and was a key figure in the Scandinavian cultural and intellectual landscape. Brandes' quote provides insight into his personal experiences and the formative moments that shaped his character.

Brandes' mention of being "so great a warrior" in his imagination reflects the vivid and imaginative nature of childhood. During this time, children often engage in elaborate fantasies and role-playing, envisioning themselves as heroes and adventurers. This phase of imaginative play is a crucial part of cognitive and emotional development, allowing children to explore and understand the world around them through the lens of their own creativity.

However, the quote also highlights the contrast between Brandes' imaginative world and the real-life responsibilities that he had to assume. The shift from being taken to school by a nurse to becoming the protector of his younger brother signifies a significant transition in Brandes' life. It represents the moment when he had to confront the challenges and demands of the real world, taking on a role of care and responsibility for his sibling.

The juxtaposition of Brandes' imagined warrior persona with the practical need for strength and protection underscores the complexity of childhood experiences. It speaks to the duality of childhood, where the line between fantasy and reality is often blurred, and where children must navigate between their imaginative worlds and the tangible responsibilities of everyday life.

This quote offers a glimpse into the personal and emotional growth of Georg Brandes, shedding light on the formative experiences that influenced his worldview and shaped his perspective as a critic and scholar. It invites readers to reflect on their own transitions from childhood to adulthood, and the pivotal moments that compelled them to confront the realities of the world.

In conclusion, Georg Brandes' quote captures a poignant moment of transition in his childhood, where the vivid world of imagination intersected with the practical demands of real life. It provides a glimpse into the formative experiences that influenced Brandes' personal and intellectual development, offering valuable insight into the complexities of childhood and the enduring impact of such pivotal moments.