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The Schoolmaster of the Future, 1887. Artist: Joseph Swain
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The Schoolmaster of the Future, 1887. Artist: Joseph Swain
The Schoolmaster of the Future, 1887. The British workman has come into school to take the boy away in order to teach him a trade that will be more useful to him in life than Trigonometry or Geology. This cartoon accompanies a poem of the same name in which Punch puts forward the view that an artisan of the future must needs learn a craft and develop skills that will stand him in good stead. It is not that book-learning is bad for a boy, but if a mans lot is to trudge, it is small use fitting him with wings. From Punch, or the London Charivari, November 19, 1887
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Media ID 14832039
© The Print Collector / Heritage-Images
Classroom Eyes Heritage Image Partnership John Tenniel Joseph Swain Pupil School Schoolmaster Sir John Tenniel Swain Tenniel
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The Schoolmaster of the Future, 1887
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a thought-provoking cartoon print that captures the essence of Victorian education and societal values. In this artwork by Joseph Swain, we see a male schoolmaster standing in front of his classroom, while a British workman enters to take away a young boy. The artist's intention is to convey the idea that practical skills and trades are more valuable for future success than subjects like Trigonometry or Geology. Accompanying this illustration is a poem titled "The Schoolmaster of the Future" published in Punch magazine. The poem argues that while book-learning has its merits, it may not be useful for those destined for manual labor. Instead, teaching them crafts and developing practical skills would better prepare them for their future occupations. This satirical caricature reflects the prevailing belief during the 19th century that education should align with one's social class and occupation. It highlights society's emphasis on vocational training rather than intellectual pursuits alone. Through monochrome black-and-white imagery, Swain creates an engaging visual narrative that challenges traditional educational norms. This print serves as a reminder of how societal attitudes towards education have evolved over time and prompts us to consider whether our current systems adequately prepare individuals for their chosen paths in life.
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