Commentary

In-depth perspectives and critical analysis from faculty, editors, and readers on public affairs, higher education, and Harvard’s evolving mission.

Jack Reardon waves

Tips of the Hat(s)

On regalia, a Jack-of-all-trades retirement, and a Bok’s office bon mot.

by Primus VI

Illustration of a math students gathering, 1936, in Annanberg Hall, Memorial Hall

Yesterday’s News

Including profundity and pretzels

Magna Carta on display in Houghton Library

An Original Magna Carta, Hidden in Plain Sight

A rare original surfaces at Harvard at an “almost providential” moment. 

by Nina Pasquini

A bride and groom in formal attire cut a tiered cake at a candlelit wedding reception table.

We Were Students Once...

Young love: the poem, plus enduring lessons from a public-health pioneer

by Primus VI

Alice Hamilton in a dark dress with high lace collar, gazing left in a sepia-toned portrait

Alice Hamilton

Brief life of a public-health pioneer and reformer: 1869-1970

by Daniel Stone

At an anxious time, c. 1940, seniors consult the crystal ball about their future; a cartoon with John Harvard statue

Yesterday’s News

Seniors’ uncertain future c. 1940, Harvard Law Review news, and more

Fond Farewell

The long-time editor signs off

Justice Edward Sanford portrait, modified to depict him as a baseball player

Origin Stories

An admissions odyssey, the search for “Casey,” and a Harvard legislative legacy

by Primus VI

Student protestor and Harvard police officer during the Mass Hall living-wage protest, April 25, 2001

The Unruly Academy

President emeritus Neil L. Rudenstine on changes in the academy and society that made universities more contentious—and diminished support for humane learning

by Neil L. Rudenstine

Portrait of Walter E. Fernald c. 1910

Walter E. Fernald

From enlightened care for the intellectually disabled, to eugenics, and back

by Alex Green

North wall of the Faculty Room

Faculty Room Facelift

Reimagining an iconic space to reflect the Harvard community more comprehensively

by John S. Rosenberg