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Greece and Rome have long been recognised as the birthplace of Western civilisation and represent the lively world of the Greeks and the Romans. We live in an age dominated by technology and the pursuit of immediate gratification and the value of studying Western Classics might seem outdated or irrelevant.
However, the timeless wisdom and enduring insights offered by classical literature, philosophy, and history remain as valuable as ever in today’s world. The Classics have shaped our world views and is an integral part of our modern society even though we may not be aware of it. From the arts and culture, we admire the language we use to communicate, the wisdom of the Greeks and Romans have been embedded into our worlds more profoundly than we think.
According to senior lecturer of the Department of Classical Languages at the University of Peradeniya, Dr. Varunadatta Edirisinghe, “Classics is the study of the ancient Greek and Roman civilisation. Even though we study classics as an academic discipline, nevertheless, when you dive deep in, you find that it is an account of human beings who think, act and live in good times and bad just as we do. This cements the link between classics and us. Classics invites us to discover who we are, our strengths and weaknesses, all things that make us human, compelling us to evaluate our thoughts and actions and their impact on ourselves and others, and the world we live in by placing in front of us human experiences that are both negative and positive, worthy of emulation – and rejection.”
In Sri Lanka, the Classics is studied in A/L as Greek and Roman Civilisation and at University as Western Classical Culture and Classical Languages and has been considered a niche subject in modern times. While the study of Classics may not be as widespread in Sri Lanka as in some Western countries, there are opportunities for students to explore this fascinating field and gain valuable insights into the intellectual traditions that have shaped our world.
By combining the study of Classics with Sri Lanka’s unique cultural heritage, students can develop a well-rounded understanding of both Western and Eastern thought. A degree in Classics need not limit one to that subject alone, but can open up many avenues and can lead to a variety of career paths, including teaching, research, journalism, and law.
In Sri Lanka, with our rich cultural heritage and ancient Buddhist traditions, studying Classics can be a unique experience and offer a distinct perspective in approaching its subject matter. In academia, there are plenty of opportunities to explore ancient Greek and Roman literature, philosophy and history within the broader context of Asian studies and comparative literature. When queried whether the popularity of a subject like Classics is decreasing due to more popular subjects like mathematics and science, Dr Varunadatta had this to say,
“No, I do not believe it is, at least not at the moment. That aside, it is not possible to imagine human societies without math and science. However, that does not, and should not cancel or lower the significance of the Humanities, and the classics in particular, simply because they are not mutually exclusive. The interest in Classics is, and will be significant in the future, especially because in the world we live in today due to flawed human behaviour, lack of ethics and the erosion of human values essential for human existence, the quality of life everywhere is decreasing rapidly.
Given its anthropocentric interest, a classical education is better suited to address these and other related social ills from a humane perspective. A union between the science, math and classics (and Humanities) education one day will positively impact students individually and in the long run their professions and, even the societies they live in.” Here are a few ways the study of Classics can enrich our lives and understanding of the world around us.
Understanding Human Nature
Classical texts like the Iliad and the Odyssey explore universal themes such as love, loss, power, and morality. By studying these works, we gain a deeper understanding of human nature and the complexities of human relationships. The characters and situations depicted in classical literature often mirror our own experiences, providing valuable insights into our own lives and the world around us. Many classical works delve into the intricacies of the human psyche, offering profound insights into motivations, emotions, and behaviour.
For example, Greek and Roman drama delves into a vast range of themes from heroism and faith to hubris and fate. All these themes are powerful concepts manifested by the inquiring mind and hold relevance in our day to day lives and are applicable to our understanding of human nature. If we take the tale of Oedipus, one of the most iconic figures in Greek mythology, his saga has been brilliantly captured by the Greek dramatist Sophocles.
Oedipus is the protagonist of Sophocles’ tragedy, Oedipus Rex. His story is a poignant exploration of fate, free will, and the consequences of hubris. The play has been the scope of many critics like Sigmund Freud whose concepts such as Oedipus complex still resounds today. Many productions of Oedipus continue to be staged and resonates with contemporary audiences, offering a profound exploration of themes such as destiny, free will, and the consequences of our actions.
The repetitious nature of human behaviour has been elucidated by Thucydides, the ancient Greek historian, who famously observed in his work History of the Peloponnesian War that “the same errors are committed from ignorance or from passion.” This statement encapsulates a central theme in his work: the cyclical nature of human behaviour and the tendency for history to repeat itself.
Thucydides’ analysis of the Peloponnesian War, a conflict between Athens and Sparta that raged from 431 to 404 BCE, reveals a complex interplay of political, economic, and social factors. However, beneath these surface-level considerations, Thucydides identifies underlying patterns of human behaviour that drive conflict and lead to recurring historical events.
Developing critical thinking skills
The study of Classics encompasses ancient Greek and Roman literature, philosophy, and history, offering a unique opportunity to develop critical thinking skills. These timeless texts present complex ideas, challenge assumptions, and encourage deep analysis, fostering a mindset that is essential for success in today’s world.
Complex ideas are part and parcel of Classical texts and often present arguments that require careful analysis and critical thinking. By engaging with these works, we develop the ability to evaluate information, question assumptions, and form reasoned judgments. Another significant skill that can be honed in by studying Classics is problem-solving skills these can be applied to a wide range of challenges in modern life.
Classical studies often require a good level of critical analysis and often challenge traditional beliefs and values, encouraging us to think critically and question the status quo. For example, in Plato’s Republic, Plato challenges our assumptions about justice, morality, and the ideal state. The Socratic Method, employed by Socrates in the Republic, involves questioning assumptions and seeking clarity through dialogue. This method encourages critical thinking and the pursuit of knowledge.
By examining the arguments of Socrates, Thrasymachus, and other characters, we learn to question our own beliefs and consider alternative perspectives. In Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics, he explores the nature of virtue and happiness. By analysing Aristotle’s arguments, we develop our ability to reason ethically and make informed moral judgments. The concept of the Golden Mean, which is where he advocates for moderation in all things, teaches us the importance of balance and avoiding extremes.
In Virgil’s Aeneid, the Epic Hero, Aeneas, a Trojan prince who journeys to Italy to found Rome, embodies the Roman value of pietas such as courage, filial duty, and perseverance. By studying Aeneas’ character, we can learn the importance of these qualities in leadership and personal development. Understanding the historical and cultural context of the Aeneid helps us to appreciate the significance of Roman mythology and its influence on Western culture.
Appreciating cultural heritage
Classics form the foundation of Western civilisation and by studying these works, we gain a deeper appreciation for another cultural heritage and the intellectual traditions that have shaped our world. Ancient Greece and Rome are two of the most influential civilisations in Western history, and have left behind a rich cultural legacy that continues to shape our world today. Their contributions to art, literature, philosophy, politics, and architecture have had a profound impact on Western culture and continue to be celebrated and studied. Studying classics allows one to immerse oneself in to the artistic world of the Greek and the Romans and allows you to experience and admire its many wonders.
For example, Greek Sculpture is renowned for its beauty, realism, and idealisation of the human form and Greek sculpture has inspired artists for centuries. Sculptors like Phedias, Polycleitus and Praxiteles created many masterpieces that had served as an example for many centuries of artists like Michelangelo and Raphael. Among the famous works of art include the Discobolus of Myron, Doryphorus by Polycleitus, Venus de Milo by Alexandros of Antioch, and the Parthenon sculptures of Phidias are iconic examples of Greek artistry.
When it comes to Rome, the Romans excelled in engineering feats and their architecture is characterised by its grandeur, practicality, and innovation. The Romans were the first to develop concrete which enabled them to build sturdy constructions like the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the aqueducts of Rome, all of which are enduring symbols of Roman engineering and architectural prowess.
Both Greek and Roman civilisations produced stunning mosaics, which are intricate works of art created from small pieces of coloured stone or glass. These mosaics adorned floors, walls, and ceilings of public buildings and private residences. The art form continued with the Holy Roman Empire and adorned its many churches while stained glass windows found in churches are a direct result of the influence of mosaics.
Lovers of literature and philosophy will find Classics a reverting subject and enable one to appreciate the beauties and intricacies of classical literature and philosophy. Greek tragedy, exemplified by the works of Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides, explored themes of fate, free will, and the human condition. These plays continue to be performed and studied today.
Greek Old Comedy of Aristophanes’ satirised Athenian society and politics, offering a humorous and critical perspective on contemporary issues. When it comes to Greek philosophy: Greek philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle made significant contributions to fields such as ethics, metaphysics, and political philosophy. Their ideas have had a profound impact on Western though up to this day.
Greek historians like Herodotus and Thucydides inspired written prose; the Histories of Herodotus composed in 5 Century BCE is considered the first written historical document in Western civilisation. This tradition was later followed by Thucydides who is considered the first scientific historians for his empirical method of recording events for posterity, as humans have a tendency to repeat past mistakes. Roman literature, influenced by Greek models, produced works such as Virgil’s Aeneid, a national epic celebrating the founding of Rome, and Tacitus’ Histories and Annals, which provide valuable historical accounts of the Roman Empire.
With regard to political theory, Athens, developed the concept of democracy, a form of government where power is vested with the people. This democratic experiment has influenced political systems around the world. The Roman Republic instituted a system of governance based on representative democracy and laid the foundation for modern republican forms of government.
The cultural heritage of ancient Greece and Rome continues to inspire and influence contemporary society. Their ideas and achievements have shaped our understanding of art, literature, philosophy, politics, and human nature. By studying and appreciating this rich cultural legacy, we can gain a deeper understanding of our own history and the world around us.
Enhancing communication skills
The language and style of Classical texts are often written in elegant and sophisticated language. By studying these works, we can improve our own writing and communication skills.
Understanding the nuances of persuasion is a skill that can be mastered when you study Classics. Most Classical texts are often filled with examples of persuasive rhetoric, enabling students to analyse how authors use language to influence their audience. Identifying Rhetorical Devices is another skill you can gain by studying classical works. Classical authors are masters of employing rhetorical devices and students can learn to identify and employ various rhetorical devices, such as metaphors, similes, and analogies, to enhance their own writing and speaking. Classical authors often used language with precision and clarity, avoiding unnecessary complexity. Logical Structure of classical texts, often organised into introductions, body paragraphs, and conclusions, provides a model for clear and coherent communication.
Classical philosophers, like Socrates and Aristotle, engaged in rigorous debates and discussions. Studying such works can sharpen one’s skills in logical reasoning and argumentation. One can also gain knowledge on how to proceed with counterarguments. Classical texts like Plato’s Dialogues feature the Socratic method of questioning and debate, which can be applied to various communication situations. Cicero the renowned Roman orator and advocate’s speeches provide valuable insights into persuasive rhetoric and public speaking. Aristotle’s Rhetoric is a treatise on rhetoric offering a systematic analysis in the art of persuasion and covers topics such as ethos, pathos, and logos.
By studying Classics, students can develop a strong foundation in communication skills that are essential for success in both academic and professional settings.
Lifelong learning
In the days of yore, a sound knowledge of the Classics was a hallmark of a well-learned person. In many schools, the learning of Classical Languages like Greek and Latin were compulsory. To this day, in some parts of the world, Latin and Greek are included in the school curriculum. There is a belief that the study of Classics encompassed a world of knowledge and critical skills that were necessary to mould a complete person. The study of Classics offers a wealth of opportunities for lifelong learning. These timeless texts provide intellectual stimulation, foster critical thinking, and encourage a lifelong pursuit of knowledge.
Classics is a subject that provides an intellectual stimulation and food for thought. You will encounter complex ideas in Classical texts often presenting multifaceted ideas and arguments that require careful analysis and critical thinking. This intellectual stimulation can keep your mind sharp and engaged.
