In Elizabethan era why was the schools called grammar schools?

The schools in the Elizabethan era were called grammar schools because Latin grammar was the core subject of their curriculum.

Here's why:

* Latin was the language of scholarship and learning: In the Elizabethan era, Latin was the dominant language of academia, literature, law, and even religious texts. It was considered essential for anyone seeking higher education or a position of influence.

* Grammar was the foundation of learning: Latin grammar was seen as the key to unlocking the meaning and structure of the language. Mastering grammar was considered essential for understanding Latin literature, philosophy, and other scholarly works.

* The curriculum focused on Latin grammar: These schools taught Latin grammar, rhetoric, logic, and some history, all through the lens of the Latin language. Students learned to read, write, and speak Latin fluently.

While the curriculum included some other subjects, the focus on Latin grammar gave the schools their name and defined their educational philosophy. They were designed to prepare students for university and public service, which at the time, were both heavily reliant on Latin proficiency.