The Gymnasium in Arad at the Intersection of Ecclesiastical and Secular Influences (1745 and 1867)

In this study, we propose to bring to the forefront an innovative subject, namely, the pedagogy of the Gymnasium in Arad, during the period 1745–1867. The proposed approach is based on three research tracks, intended to provide an analysis of the teaching methods employed in the Gymnasium in Arad when educational laws were issued in the Habsburg Empire. To begin with, we delve into the formation of the Gymnasium in Arad, thus tracking the changes that occurred at the pedagogical level both after the issuance of the Ratio Educationis law (1777) and the second law, Ratio educatione publicae (1806). Through the next research track, we aim to present how pedagogical activities were conducted with the students. In the final part of the material, we draw the reader’s attention to some manuals that were used by students and teachers in gymnasiums. This scientific endeavor is based on several research questions: Do the Minorites still teach at the Gymnasium in Arad after the issuance of the educational laws? What was studied in a gymnasium? What does the new educational law of 1806 bring to pedagogy compared to the one from 1777? These questions arise from the necessity of understanding how pedagogy was structured in the Gymnasium in Arad during the period of educational reforms.