University of Paris
The University of Paris, also known as Sorbonne, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. Its origins trace back to the late 12th century, making it one of the earliest universities established in Europe.
History
- Foundation: The University of Paris was officially recognized by Papacy in 1200 when King Philippe Auguste issued a charter. However, its roots can be traced back to the early 1100s when various masters of arts and theology began to organize teaching in Paris.
- Early Development: The university was divided into four faculties: Arts, Medicine, Law, and Theology. The Faculty of Arts was the most numerous and influential, serving as a preparatory school for the other three faculties.
- Medieval Influence: During the Middle Ages, the University of Paris was a center for intellectual and theological disputes, notably between Thomas Aquinas and Siger of Brabant, which helped shape Scholasticism.
- Reformation and Enlightenment: The university played a significant role during the Reformation and later in the Enlightenment, with figures like Denis Diderot and Jean-Jacques Rousseau influencing and being influenced by the university's environment.
- Revolutionary Changes: During the French Revolution, the university was closed in 1793 and its faculties were abolished. It was reestablished in 1808 by Napoleon Bonaparte under the name 'Université Impériale'.
- 20th Century: The University of Paris was split into 13 autonomous universities in 1968 following the student protests, known as the May 68 protests, to better manage the large student population and to modernize the education system.
Structure Post-1968
After the restructuring, the University of Paris became a collection of universities, each with its own identity and specialties:
Notable Alumni and Faculty
The University of Paris has educated numerous notable figures, including:
External Links
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