DULCE DOMUM
W hen I first joined Winchester, I saw the motto,‘ Manners Makyth Man’ – but not‘ Woman’ – as an outdated testament to a historical, patriarchal system. I was called brave for joining an institution only just starting its intake of girls, yet it didn’ t feel like bravery.
I very quickly dissociated from the implications of an all-boys school: instead, I was part of a community where I was embraced and included. Being in the first intake of girls at Winchester College felt wholesome rather than daunting, and I’ m so grateful I was given such an opportunity. Because of this, I am excited for the new girls’ boarding houses; I had such a strong community within mine, even as a day pupil, that I’ m sure it will only enhance this sense of community.
AUTHOR: MICHELLE MEITINER( H, 2022- 24)
Studying English Language and Literature at the University of Oxford. One of the first recipients of The Wykeham Award.
In Hartland House, the library at St Anne ' s College, Oxford
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