The Journal of Philology

This biannual journal, The Journal of Philology, chronicles the evolution of classical philology and the rise of specialized academic journals from 1868 to 1920.

Founded in 1868 by Cambridge scholars John Eyton Bickersteth Mayor, William George Clark, and William Aldis Wright, The Journal of Philology is a biannual journal that played a significant role in the evolution of modern academic publishing. Surviving until 1920, this journal marked an important transition from general literary reviews to specialized academic journals. Over its 35 volumes, it provided a platform for classical philology, showcasing the discipline's growth and expanding scope during a pivotal time in academia.

The journal was a successor to The Journal of Classical and Sacred Philology, and unlike its predecessor, it thrived for over fifty years. It featured contributions from notable scholars such as J. P. Postgate, Robinson Ellis, and A. E. Housman, who enriched its content with their insights into classical studies. The articles not only focused on philology but also explored historical and literary themes, offering a comprehensive view of the intellectual landscape of the time.

Volume 9, which includes issues 17 and 18, was published in 1880 and is just one example of the journal's extensive output. The Journal of Philology serves as a valuable resource for understanding the development of specialized academic journals and the evolution of classical philology as a discipline throughout its publication history.