Science for children and the untutored in eighteenth-century England.
Item
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Title
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Science for children and the untutored in eighteenth-century England.
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Identifier
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AAI9908354
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identifier
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9908354
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Creator
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Robin, Regina Spires.
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Contributor
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Adviser: James R. Jacob
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Date
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1998
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Language
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English
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Publisher
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City University of New York.
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Subject
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History of Science | Education, Sciences | Literature, English | Education, History of
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Abstract
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The popularization of science in eighteenth-century England included books written for children and the untutored. This exploratory study examines five authors who enjoyed recognition in the world of adult literature and who sought to simplify scientific material while conserving sophisticated language and complex ideas. Francesco Algarotti popularized Newton's Opticks while John Newbery, under the pseudonym Tom Telescope, used the playthings of childhood to explore Locke's version of Newton's natural philosophy. James Ferguson, in a series of dialogues between a brother and sister, explicated astronomy for young readers. Richard Lovell Edgeworth and his daughter, Maria, regarded observation and experimentation as the primary method of teaching applied science to their young charges. Thomas Day and Edgeworth used popular heroes to explore social issues and changing values. Encouraged by members of the Lunar Society, they utilized their literary and scientific knowledge to further the cause of home schooling. They stressed industry, honesty, self-reliance and hard work as necessary corollaries to scientific exploration and, at the same time, addressed a variety of social issues including the place of women in science, the role of philanthropy, the evils of gambling and the possibilities of a plurality of worlds. This study attempts to bridge the gap between children's literature and the popularization of science.
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Type
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dissertation
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Source
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PQT Legacy CUNY.xlsx
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degree
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Ph.D.
