modern school reforms themselves. No sooner has one startled the world, than it is followed and overthrown by a newer, later, more modern system. To each of them may be applied the words of St. Peter to Saphira, which a German philosopher used with reference to modern philosophical theories: "Behold the feet of them who have buried thy husband are at the door, and they shall carry thee out."[1] We have an instance in Germany. In 1892, a new plan of studies was introduced in Prussia, and at about the same time in the other states of Germany.[2] The classical studies lost a great number of hours. Although this plan was introduced at the urgent wish of the young Emperor and through his "energetic personal interference,"[3] it met with great opposition on the part of the majority of teachers. No party was satisfied. The strict advocates of the ancient classics complained of the reduction in the classical instruction. The friends of the scientific schools were not satisfied with the concessions made them.[4] On all sides the cry was heard: "Reform the Reform of 1892."
In 1895 the Ministry of Instruction allowed the directors of the gymnasia to add, in the three higher classes, one hour a week, which should be devoted to
- ↑ Acts 5, 9.
- ↑ A very good account of this reform is given by Dr. Russell, German Higher Schools, ch. XX. See also Educational Review, September, 1900. The best and most comprehensive sketch of the "Berlin Conference of 1890" is contained in the Report of the Commissioner of Education, 1889-90, vol. I, pp. 343-398, by Charles Herbert Thurston of Cornell University.
- ↑ Report of the Comm. of Ed., l. c., p. 363.
- ↑ Rep. of Com. of Ed., l. c., p. 398.
