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The Education Problem, 1870. Artist: Joseph Swain
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The Education Problem, 1870. Artist: Joseph Swain
The Education Problem, 1870. Forster, the schoolboy on the left had earlier in the year introduced the governments Bill for Public Elementary Education in England and Wales. Here, he is seen showing Britannia, in the form of a matronly schoolmistress, that he has solved his problems. The problems were that all the different religious factions had been fighting about the management of the schools, the influence and control that different factions would be able to exercise, and the religious content of the curriculum. Eventually, an amendment stating that no religious catechism or religious formulary which is distinctive of any particular denomination shall be taught was accepted and the Bill passed into law. From Punch, or the London Charivari, July 16, 1870
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Media ID 14831460
© The Print Collector / Heritage-Images
Apron Blackboard Britannia Classroom Forster Glasses Helmet Heritage Image Partnership John Tenniel Joseph Swain Problem Pupil Schoolboy Schoolboys Schoolchild Schoolchildren Schoolmistress Sir John Tenniel Spectacles Swain Tenniel William Edward William Edward Forster Allegorical Figure Problem Solving
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this print titled "The Education Problem, 1870" artist Joseph Swain brilliantly captures the political and religious turmoil surrounding public elementary education in England and Wales during the 19th century. The central figure is William Edward Forster, a prominent politician who introduced a crucial Bill for Public Elementary Education earlier that year. Depicting Britannia as a matronly schoolmistress, Swain portrays Forster proudly presenting his solution to the problems plaguing education at the time. These issues included fierce disputes between different religious factions regarding school management, control over curriculum content, and influence within educational institutions. Ultimately, an amendment was accepted stating that no specific religious catechism or formulary would be taught in schools. This significant development paved the way for the passage of Forster's Bill into law. Through clever caricature and satire, this engraving from Punch magazine showcases not only Swain's artistic talent but also highlights the importance of resolving complex societal issues through compromise and understanding. The black-and-white monochrome style adds depth to this historical piece while emphasizing its timeless relevance. As we observe this image today, it serves as a reminder of how far we have come in shaping inclusive educational systems while acknowledging our ongoing commitment to ensuring equal access to quality education for all.
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