In the second part of our exploration of the history of universities, we discuss the apotheosis of the university in the American republic, the rise of the German-style research university, and the arrival of women in the elite universities. We end by considering the current crisis of universities, as humanities departments disappear, sexual-assault scandals tarnish prestigious schools, and the public turns an increasingly jaundiced and cynical eye toward the academic “ivory tower.”
Also see The Middle Ages: History of Universities, Part 1 – Flower of the Middle Ages
Image: “Alma Mater,” Columbia University, New York City, photographed by Beyond My Ken. Intro music: Domenico Scarlatti, Sonata in D minor, played on harpsichord by Wanda Landowska.
Suggested further reading: Walter Ruegg, ed., “A History of the University in Europe,” 4 vols.; William Clark, “Academic Charisma and the Origins of the Research University”; Peter Novick, That Noble Dream: The Objectivity Question and the American Historical Profession”; Henry Adams, “The Education of Henry Adams”; Chad Wellmon, “A Wild Muddle: Have American Elite Colleges Lost Their Moral Purpose Altogether?”
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