This magazine is quite comprehensive in its content when compared to other such periodicals of its time. Unlike modern magazines that have a vast and diverse readership, Oxford Magazine had a circulation that was confined to London and the university town of Oxford. This gave the writers the license to focus their articles on well known, local topics; not solely national or global interests. For example, there is a detailed article about the murder trial of a military officer and the subsequent riots that followed. Granted that this was a relatively small-scale event, most people outside of London wouldn't have much interest in this subject, but due to its precise market, it is quite salient. [You are right about the local interest of a murder, even in the capital, but ask yourself whether riots in Washington D.C. wouldn't be national news today. You forget that London was the political and economic capital of the country, not just the largest city.]

Another glaring difference is the manner in which this magazine challenges its readers. Instead of simply entertaining the public with gossip, essays such as "Power of Passions" and "Whether Genius ought to be Considered a Natural Gift or as an Effect of Education" offer intellectual stimulation to the readers about the world around them. However, the magazine displays its scope by giving a condensed version of a play for those who haven't seen it yet. This ability to bounce between philosophy and mainstream entertainment is certainly new to me. [How about The New Yorker or Harper's or Esquire?]

The rest of the magazine is full of poetical essays, foreign and domestic news, and paid advertisements. This last section provided the greatest enjoyment. There was a personal ad from a genteel woman to any pleasant, well-educated man. It gave an address and specifications for the meeting. I had no idea there were personal ads then. Already I can say I've learned something I'll never forget.