Loyola and the Educational System of the Jesuits

How Jesuit teachers were trained matters as much here as the schools they established. Thomas Hughes traces the educational work of the Society of Jesus through a historical account centred on Ignatius of Loyola, then examines the principles and procedures of the Ratio Studiorum. His preface explains his reliance on documents, regulations, commentaries and the teaching customs of the order.

The discussion moves from the founding and administration of colleges to the daily work of learning and instruction. A passage on teacher preparation considers Greek, Latin and the native language, linking clear writing to careful thought, extensive reading and criticism. Translation becomes an exercise in understanding the distinctive force of each language. For readers studying educational history, the book offers a detailed account of how a religious institution connected the formation of teachers with classroom practice and a structured course of studies.