Recitation, in this context, refers not to the oral delivery of prepared lessons by a pupil in front of a teacher, but the reciting of memorized selections in a public performance accompanied by studied gestures and intonation.  The practice had its origins in reading aloud in homes, gradually became institutionalized in the schools (elocution), and finally evolved into a popular form of entertainment in variety shows such as vaudeville and music halls.  Although elocution originally was aimed at training clergymen and lawyers, it became a means of promoting proper speech among the working class, thus facilitating upward mobility.  In Victorian-era schools, uplifting recitations that fostered moral improvement were especially encouraged.  Well-known poems were popular, as were inspiring historic and patriotic ballads.  The two simple examples of verses for children illustrated below are fairly typical of the period.