Willingly to School: A History of Women's Education

Mary Cathcart Borer's book Willingly to School explores the gradual reversal of inequality in educational opportunities for women in British history, from the Anglo-Saxons to the twentieth century. It examines the significant role of the church, royal and noble girls, and the emergence of the modern school system. Borer's analysis remains pertinent today, despite the progress made in women's education.

Format: Paperback / softback
Publication date: 25 May 2023
Publisher: James Clarke & Co Ltd

The denial of equal educational opportunities to women is undeniably one of the most profound injustices in the history of Britain. In her book, Willingly to School, Mary Cathcart Borer meticulously documents the gradual reversal of this inequality and its revolutionary impact on social structures, spanning from the Anglo-Saxons to the twentieth century. Borer remains acutely aware of the historical context of each era, delving into the significant early role of the church, the privileges afforded to royal and noble girls, the origins of various forms of privately and charitably funded schools, and the emergence of the modern school system. Throughout her exploration, Borer pays close attention to prominent institutions and individuals, including Christ's Hospital, Cheltenham Ladies College, the Brontë sisters, and Fanny Burney. In 1975, Borer characterized the mid-twentieth century as a pivotal moment in the pursuit of women's full equality in society. While the intervening years have demonstrated that there remains significant work to be accomplished in achieving gender equality, Borer's analysis of the progress made in women's education remains as timely and relevant as ever.

Weight: 416g
Dimension: 214 x 137 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780718896508