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