Cătălin Botoșineanu
The article explores the educational legacy of Simion Bărnuțiu in Iași during the mid-19th century, focusing on his contributions to the development of public education and the founding of the University of Iași. Arriving in 1855, Bărnuțiu taught law, philosophy, ethics, and aesthetics, becoming a central figure in Moldavian academic life. He was instrumental in shaping the university’s early structure and was proposed twice as rector, though he declined due to citizenship and health issues.
Despite administrative challenges and political tensions, Bărnuțiu’s influence endured through his teaching, writings, and symbolic role in the university’s foundation. His death in 1864 was marked by a large public ceremony, and his legacy was honored with a marble bust and posthumous publication of his courses. The article also highlights the provisional nature of the university’s early years and the complex dynamics between professors, government officials, and institutional legitimacy.
Keywords: Simion Bărnuțiu, University of Iași, Professor.