Classics Cuts at RHUL

An article from the London Evening Standard about the campaign to save Classics at Royal Holloway can be found here.

A reminder that the official petition to show your support for the campaign can be accessed here.

Athenian Democracy: A Teaching Resource

I have just come across a brilliant site on the development and history of Athenian democracy. You can find the site here. It has a number of very useful articles on the major changes to the Athenian political system and links to the major relevant Classical texts. Many of the articles are available as PDF downloads.

Humanities Matter

I'm just posting a link for the Humanities Matter campaign group, which seeks to promote and defend world leading teaching and research in the Humanities and Social Sciences in UK universities. It is endorsed by leading academics across a range of subject specialism. At this time of looming budget cuts across the education sector, it is surely time for such a broad campaign. You can find the campaign site here.

Advice for New Classics & Ancient History Undergraduates

With the start of term rapidly approaching, I thought it appropriate to offer some advice to new undergraduates on making the most of their studies:

1. Learn a (Classical) language. Recent surveys indicate a serious recruitment problem for schools seeking Classics teachers. Latin and Greek are in real demand. Languages might seem like hard work, but they could be the key to your future.


2. Travel. Many universities offer bursaries and scholarships to allow their students to experience material firsthand. Travel boosts your knowledge of material in context. It also, so I'm told, broadens the mind.


3. Gain experience. Start thinking now about long term career plans. If you fancy teaching, try to find opportunities to observe lessons or help at local youth groups. If you see yourself working in a museum, then search for internships or voluntary positions.


4. Read. Go beyond the syllabus to broaden your knowledge of the ancient world. Don't be scared to engage with Classical texts on your own intiative. Likewise, read the great works of Classical scholarship. Every undergraduate should read Syme's Roman Revolution and Gibbon's Decline and Fall. Make the most of the resources of your university library.


5. Work hard. Bodies awarding postgraduate funding often check results from all of your modules - don't slack off in your first year as it could have long term implications.


6. Get value for your money. You are paying a large sum of money to be taught by experts in their field. Make the most of this by asking questions, joining discussions and challenging your assumptions.


7. Enjoy every minute.