Kαλoι κ'αγαθoι (The Beautiful and the Good): Classical School Architecture and Educational Elitism in Early Nineteenth-Century Edinburgh

Edinburgh's historic school buildings, renowned for their classical architecture and prestigious locations, embody the city's educational dichotomy between state and private institutions. While these structures symbolize tradition and longevity, their complex histories—marked by shifts in social status, educational purpose, and architectural use—challenge this perception. The study examines two key case studies: the Edinburgh Academy (1824) and the Royal High School of Edinburgh (1829), revealing their origins as charitable orphanages later repurposed for middle-class education. By analyzing municipal debates from 1822–23, the research uncovers the negotiation of educational ideologies and architectural legacies that define these institutions today.

Watters, D. (2014). Kαλoι κ’αγαθoι (The Beautiful and the Good): Classical School Architecture and Educational Elitism in Early Nineteenth-Century Edinburgh. Architectural History, 57, 277–321. https://doi.org/10.1017/s0066622x00001441