Cambridge

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

47019

Title

Cambridge

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This text chronicles the historic struggle for women's higher education at Cambridge University, detailing the establishment of Girton College, legislative victories like the 'Graces,' and the gradual opening of degrees to female students. It highlights key figures such as Miss Clough and Mrs. Fawcett, contrasting academic achievements with societal resistance.

Summary up to 500 words

The text details the financial and academic development of Girton College, a women's college at Cambridge, highlighting its reliance on private donors to appoint four fellows and establish permanent fellowships. These positions support students from diverse backgrounds, including those preparing for tripos examinations, Higher Local Groups, and special courses. The narrative emphasizes the national importance of providing women with academic education, noting that Miss Clough argued against burdening local Cambridge residents or university members who already contributed their time. Historical context is provided through a list of notable alumni bearing ancient Cambridge names, spanning centuries from the 12th to the 19th. The document records significant legislative milestones, such as the voting in favor of the 'Graces' by forty Members of Parliament and the 1886 statutes that opened mathematical, natural sciences, and modern history schools to women. It notes the rapid growth in female entries for examinations, rising from 639 in 1863 to 844 the following year. Statistical data from 1886 to 1906 illustrates Girton's academic performance across six triposes, showing high percentages of first-class degrees in Moral Sciences, Languages, and Natural Sciences. The text also contrasts women's achievements with those of men, noting that while 94 women took the tripos since 1881, only 168 men did so compared to an expected proportion of 940. The struggle for degree recognition is addressed, mentioning a 1887 petition signed by 842 senate members and objections met in a 1896 pamphlet. Finally, the text outlines the broader landscape of women's higher education in England, Scotland, and newer universities like London (which granted equal access in 1878), Victoria, and Durham, illustrating the progressive shift toward gender equality in academic institutions.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

Download URL

https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/47019.epub.noimages

Local file path

data/epubs/pg47019.epub

Download EPUB

Downloaded at

2026-08-16 18:59 UTC

Categories

• History
• Travel