Masculinity development in civil educational institutions of post-reform Russia (on the basis of noble memoirs)

The paper, based on the memoirs of the nobles – graduates of gymnasiums and colleges, deals with the features of masculinity development in civilian educational institutions of pre-revolutionary Russia. The reform of education in the second half of the 19^th century was due to the training of new professional personnel. Educational institutions became the center of civic education. Moral character and discipline were a fundamental aspect in the process of education. The choice of an educational institution for young men and their parents was an important step for a successful career. Hazing is characteristic of both military educational institutions and civilian ones. Physical training within the walls of civilian educational institutions was also given attention. For young noblemen, the manifestation of masculinity consisted primarily in serving their country in the state, scientific and teaching fields. The years spent at an educational institution were perceived by future men in different ways. The authorities and the teaching staff taught the foundations of humanism, patriotism and humanity to their students. But the work of a teacher and educators at a civilian educational institution was not easy. However, the all-class education showed that the nobility was losing its supremacy, but despite this, it formed a sense of tolerance among young nobles.