The purpose of this thesis is to discuss education as a state tool in Sweden during the 17th and 18th century. The idea is to contrast the pragmatics of the Swedish education system with the theories of Rousseau and Comenius. The thesis is marked by the thought that theory and application diverse because of the subversive infusion in the ideas of the theoretic.

The results shows that it is ultimately a question of public education and its potential. The state recognises the potential of public education but also its dangers and therefore becomes very active in forming not only the education system as a hole but also its pedagogic.