This groundbreaking book combines a historical interpretation of Victorian educational debate with a critical overview of contemporary educational thought.

* Traces the roots of contemporary educational practice in the values of Victorian thinking

* Combines detailed consideration of Victorian sources, literary and non-literary, with reflections on their legacy in the 21st century

* Reflects on questions of social class, religion, and gender as the Victorians defined them in relation to educational ideals

* Suggests challenging connections between literary and social history and contemporary dilemmas