RMG - "Giulio Barberis' Pedagogy Notebook" A critical edition

19 July 2017

(ANS - Rome) - Salesian priest Giulio Barberis (1847-1927) was one of Don Bosco's disciples and associates recognized as a key figure for the genesis and development of the Salesian Opera in organizational, institutional, training and charismatic aspects. For this reason, Fr José Manuel Prellezo, a member of the Salesian Historical Institute (ISS), curated a critical edition of the famous "Footnotes of Pedagogy" by Fr Barberis (1897).

This volume, published by the Salesian University Library (Libreria Ateneo Salesiano) for the "Fonti" series, opens with an ample introduction of the curator, a Professor of History of Pedagogy and Education at the Salesian Pontifical University (SPU) in Rome. Underlying the work's features, Fr Barberis pointed out that he did not propose to produce a "complete pedagogical treatise", but rather to offer young educators some help "in the difficult task of educating well."

Generally speaking, the "Notes" do not deviate much from the pedagogical manuals of its epoch. After the exposition of General Notions, the central body of the opus is divided into five parts: Physical Education, Intellectual Education, Aesthetic Education, Moral and Religious Pedagogy (with a section titled: The Preventive System). The book offers an authoritative testimony of a loving disciple and active collaborator of Don Bosco. Unconditional fidelity and deep admiration for the educational method of the "father, friend and teacher" did not impede, indeed, empowered the Salesian writer to broaden his range of interests towards the work of Italian and foreign, ancient and modern pedagogues and educators.

The volume's Afterword, by Fr. Darius Grządziel, SDB, Extraordinary Professor of Pedagogy and Didactics at SPU, invites readers, whether they be pedagogues or educators, to reflect and to study how the opus dated late nineteenth century, can be re-read and appreciated even today.

Highlighted are some particularly important elements for possible development included what might be called "Salesian pedagogy." Aside from some critical points, the "Notes" may act as one of the "bridges" between Don Bosco's ideas and educational practice and a possible further re-elaboration to to currently developed further.

Some principles identified in Barberis's text, on the one hand, and today's pedagogical methodologies and epistemology, on the other, offer suitable instruments to make the suggested invitation both rewarding and useful.

InfoANS

ANS - “Agenzia iNfo Salesiana” is a on-line almost daily publication, the communication agency of the Salesian Congregation enrolled in the Press Register of the Tibunal of Rome as n 153/2007.

This site also uses third-party cookies to improve user experience and for statistical purposes. By scrolling through this page or by clicking on any of its elements, you consent to the use of cookies. To learn more or to opt out, click "Further Information".