Sesame and Lilies (Barnes & Noble Digital Library)

First published in 1865, Ruskin’s two lectures on educational reform codify Victorian ideals of men and women.  In “Of Kings’ Treasuries,” Ruskin critiques contemporary manhood, while in “Of Queens’ Gardens,” he urges women to be educated to serve as the moral guides of men. An intriguing look into the roles of men, women, and the family in the nineteenth century.