Public Schools 3 What is Athleticism What is

Public Schools 3 What is Athleticism? What is Muscular Christianity?

Athleticism Cult of Athleticism emerged from the middle of the 19 th century. Combination of playing hard (Physical endeavour) and sportsmanship (Moral integrity) Physical Endeavour Moral Integrity Appreciation of health and fitness Sportsmanship Toughen up an indulgent society Teamwork Competitive in a competitive society Honour/loyalty Counter the tendency to over study Leadership and discipline The movement ran parallel to Muscular Christianity, amateurism and olympism. All concepts embraced the physical and moral benefits of participation in rationalised games This reflected the values of the upper and middle class in the 19 th century and is viewed as the legacy of British sport

Muscular Christianity Initiated by Charles Kingsley Evangelical movement combining Christianity and the chivalric ideals of ‘manliness’ Believed that a healthy body and a healthy mind are needed to fully serve god Muscular Christians only supported rational activities, those governed by Playing Conforming to honourably is rules and codes of behaviour the rules and more the principle of important than fair play winning Working as a team, loyalty to the cause Muscular Christiani ty Performance dedicated to God and use of ‘God-given’ abilities