MARYLAND STATE - Maryland, a state with a rich colonial history, is home to a venerable institution of higher learning: St. John's College in Annapolis. Founded in 1696 as King William's School, St. John's holds the distinction of being the oldest college in Maryland and one of the oldest in the United States. More than just a historic landmark, St. John's is renowned for its unique and rigorous "Great Books" curriculum, a testament to its enduring commitment to classical education.
St. John's College: A Legacy of Learning - Maryland's Oldest College
This article explores the history, the distinctive academic program, and the enduring legacy of St. John's College.
From King William's School to St. John's College: A Colonial Foundation
St. John's College's origins trace back to the late 17th century, a period of significant development in the Maryland colony. Founded in 1696 as King William's School, it was one of the first colonial schools established in British North America, predating many other renowned institutions (Source: St. John's College website, Maryland State Archives). The school was named in honor of King William III of England, reflecting the colony's ties to the British Crown. It wasn't until 1784, after the American Revolution, that the school was chartered as St. John's College, marking a new chapter in its history (Source: St. John's College charter, historical records).
The "Great Books" Program: A Unique Approach to Education
What truly sets St. John's College apart is its distinctive academic program. The college is renowned for its "Great Books" curriculum, a rigorous, discussion-based program that focuses on the study of seminal works of Western literature, philosophy, mathematics, science, and music (Source: St. John's College website, academic publications on the Great Books curriculum). Students read and discuss original texts, from Homer and Plato to Einstein and Woolf, engaging in a direct dialogue with some of history's greatest thinkers.
- No Textbooks, No Lectures: The core of the St. John's program is the seminar, where students and faculty (called "tutors") engage in collaborative discussions of the assigned readings. There are no traditional textbooks or lectures.
- All-Required Curriculum: Unlike most colleges, St. John's has an all-required curriculum; there are no majors or concentrations. All students follow the same course of study.
- Two Campuses: St. John's College has two campuses: one in Annapolis, Maryland, and another in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Both campuses follow the same curriculum.
A Legacy of Intellectual Inquiry
St. John's College's commitment to the Great Books program has made it a unique and influential institution in American higher education. It attracts students who are passionate about learning, critical thinking, and engaging in deep intellectual discussions. The college's small size and its focus on close student-faculty interaction foster a vibrant intellectual community.
Annapolis: A Historic Setting
The Annapolis campus of St. John's College is itself steeped in history. Located in the heart of Maryland's capital city, the campus is surrounded by colonial-era buildings and is within walking distance of the U.S. Naval Academy and the Maryland State House. This historic setting adds to the unique character of the St. John's experience.
St. John's College, Maryland's oldest college, is a testament to the enduring power of classical education and the pursuit of intellectual inquiry. Its unique "Great Books" program, its historic setting in Annapolis, and its commitment to fostering a vibrant intellectual community make it a truly distinctive institution. For students seeking a challenging and rewarding academic experience rooted in the foundational texts of Western civilization, St. John's College offers a unique and transformative journey. It stands as a reminder of the importance of critical thinking, close reading, and the enduring value of engaging with the great ideas that have shaped our world.
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Sources:
- St. John's College Official Website
- Maryland State Archives
- Historical accounts of colonial Maryland education
- Academic publications on the Great Books curriculum
- St. John's College publications and brochures
