The Colleges of Oxford: Their History and Traditions / XXI Chapters Contributed by Members of the Colleges

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

52286

Title

The Colleges of Oxford: Their History and Traditions / XXI Chapters Contributed by Members of the Colleges

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Edited by Andrew Clark, this volume offers a comprehensive survey of Oxford's historic colleges, blending institutional history with vivid traditions. Contributors from the colleges themselves detail architectural evolution, academic shifts, and social life from the thirteenth century through the nineteenth, capturing the intellectual and spiritual heartbeat of Oxford.

Summary up to 500 words

Published in 1891 and edited by Andrew Clark, 'The Colleges of Oxford: Their History and Traditions' is a unique compilation of twenty-one distinct histories, each written by a member of the respective institution. The volume aims to provide an intelligible picture of Oxford college life across successive periods, illustrating how individual societies reflected the broader social, religious, and intellectual conditions of the nation. The collection traces the evolution of colleges from medieval halls for seculars and regulars to modern institutions, detailing constitutional changes and the impact of the Reformation. For instance, the history of University College corrects popular misconceptions regarding its founder, establishing William of Durham as the true benefactor rather than the legendary King Alfred. Similarly, the account of Pembroke College reveals its origins in Broadgates Hall, a center for the study of Civil Law, before its transformation under the patronage of William Herbert, Earl of Pembroke. The text highlights unique traditions that defined collegiate life, such as Merton College's annual 'Scrutinies,' which served as moral audits for scholars and staff, and the 'Variations,' public philosophical disputations where Fellows debated Aristotle. Architectural wealth is noted in Christ Church, while social conditions are explored through contrasts like those between the Commonwealth and Restoration eras in Exeter College. The work preserves a wealth of traditions, from the 'Christmas King' at Merton to the specific academic focuses at Wadham College, such as the study of Hebrew and Greek. By combining these individual narratives, the volume offers a comprehensive view of the multiplicity of halls and colleges that grew from them, capturing the vitality and continuity of Oxford's collegiate society through centuries of vicissitudes.

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4.2/5

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Categories

• History