In the 18th century mathematics was considered an ‘extra’ subject at Eton to be studied in free time and for which parents had to pay separately. Handbooks with rules and exercises in Mathematics, Algebra, Geometry, Planimetry and Accounts, such as the one below, were prepared ad hoc by private tutors to instruct the boys.
MS 967
Besides rules and exercises in mathematics, algebra and geometry, this 1740 manual covered a variety of topics such as solar eclipses and scientific tools. Curiously, also a few songs and psalms were added towards the end of the volume.
It is believed that also Arthur Wesley, the future Duke of Wellington, used a similar manuscript as a boy at Eton (1781-1784). This fat handbook includes mathematical rules and examples, geometry and a little trigonometry. The Duke signed his book as ‘Wesley’ as he was known at that time. He adopted the spelling ‘Wellesley’ only after 1797.
The manual was acquired by Dr M.R. James during his Provostship at Eton, between 1918 and 1936, and presented to College Library with numerous journal cuttings loosely inserted in it.
Laura Carnelos, Library Curator
