Martin CrottyPhysical development was alleged to assist spiritual and intellectual development, while also helping safeguard boys from the 'solitary and sexual sin' of masturbation.
About This Quote
The Victorian and Edwardian eras were characterized by a very strict morality and people were 'commanded' to be well-behaved. The Victorian era saw many changes in society, but one of the most notable was the rise in religious beliefs. During this time, there was a growing fear that boys would develop bad character traits such as homosexuality and masturbation if they were not physically active. To combat this, schools began to mandate physical activity for boys in order for them to be physically fit and to be able to learn at an early age. Nowadays, it is believed that there is no link between physical activity and masturbation.
Source: Making The Australian Male: Middleclass Masculinity 1870III1920
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