Early Quaker education in PennsylvaniaWoody, Thomas
History
Early Quaker education in Pennsylvania
Woody, Thomas
Education -- Pennsylvania -- History; Society of Friends -- Education -- History; Thesis (Ph. D.)
If, as must be admitted, the previous statement points out the lack of
any opposition to the ordinary rudimentary education that is necessary
for the everyday walks of life, the last one certainly does the same
in reference to his attitude towards a higher classical education.
Moreover, this is not a mere skeleton of words never clothed with the
flesh of action. The principles set forth in the charter were actually
incorporated in the work of the schools established in Philadelphia, and
we find them maintaining a classical school for languages and higher
mathematics.[83] The practical elements received the just emphasis which
belonged to them; it was necessary that the boys and girls be made able
to earn a living and be at least ordinarily intelligent citizens. The
example of Philadelphia was followed by other communities; practical
needs were given the first consideration and a higher classical education
offered when it became possible. Not only were these studies, which we
would term higher education, mentioned by Penn and other writers among
Quakers, but they were taken up and recommended by the yearly meeting.
For example, in 1737, the minutes recommend that as opportunity can be
found, children should be privileged to learn “French, High and Low
Dutch, Danish, etc.”[84] This particular recommendation was made by the
meeting because of a felt need.[85] If then in case of a need for a
particular subject, they were willing to recommend that it be taught, can
it be truly said that they opposed all education?
[Sidenote: Barclay’s position defined]
It may be well to examine Barclay, since it is with him and his writings
that Cox takes issue. In his _Apology for Christian Divinity Vindicated_
is to be found a very clear statement of his position on the subject, and
he voices it as the principle of the whole society as well. He seems to
be answering some critic, who has taken him to task for his educational
views:
[Sidenote: In his _Apology_]
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
Early Quaker education in Pennsylvania — John Shaqi
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