 In the family atmosphere at Clarke's, Keats developed an interest in classics and history, which would stay with him throughout his short life.The headmaster's son, Charles Cowden Clarke, also became an important mentor and friend, introducing Keats to Renaissance literature, including Tasso, Spenser, and Chapman's translations.The young Keats was described by his friend Edward Holmes as a volatile character, "always in extremes", given to indolence and fighting.