The Illustrated History of Oxford University

This richly illustrated book tells the story of Oxford University from its origins in the Middle Ages to the present day. Written by a team of scholars, all authorities in their fields, it spans 800 years of colourful incident to give a uniquely authoritative history of the University for the general reader.
For hundreds of years the future leaders of the nation have been educated at Oxford. The architecture of the University and colleges has become one of the glories of Europe. Gifts to the University's libraries and museums have formed the basis of major collections. But most importantly, a university must be judged by its attachment to scholarship - a theme which runs throughout this book. Separate chapters are devoted to Oxford's contribution to Religion, to Classical Studies, to the Arts, to Life Sciences, and to the Physical Sciences.
After a brilliant intellectual beginning in the Middle Ages, the University's part in learning has always been significant and eventful. In the late nineteenth century, when British influence was at its peak, the high quality and the personal nature of the tuition attracted students from all over the English-speaking world. Then, in the twentieth century, Oxford began to learn from American and European examples and to place more emphasis on research. Today the University is internationally recognized for its contribution to research, both in the sciences and in the liberal arts.
There are over 200 illustrations, including 24 full-colour plates, specifically chosen to complement the wide-ranging text. The book also includes five maps, a chronology, guides to further reading, and a full index. Scholarly and informative, this book captures the richness and diversity of Oxford University, and its contribution to the nation and to the world.

About the Author: John Prest is Fellow and Tutor of Balliol College, Oxford University.