The Disappearance of Classics: A New Era in Higher Education
Princeton University's recent decision to no longer require its students majoring in Classics to study Latin or Greek has sparked significant debate. Is it fair to demand engineering majors learn math and physics, while bending the expectations for students in the humanities?
Princeton is not the first, nor the only university to offer a Classical Studies major without the ancient languages. My own institution has provided such an option for years, allowing students to focus on areas like archaeology, art history, and other non-literary topics. While proficiency in the ancient languages is crucial for advanced study in these areas, these students are not preparing for graduate school or a career in academia.
As a teacher of Greek and Latin, I understand the importance of these languages. However, many of our students have not had the opportunity to study them before college. Requiring them would create an insurmountable obstacle for completing a major in Classics. Without majors, our university might see the need for us to exist diminish, and the discontinuation of study could deprive all students of this unique opportunity. At my own university, the same challenge exists due to the limited demand for Greek.
The controversy caused by this move is misplaced. Focusing on prestigious institutions like Princeton ignores the struggles faced by humanities departments in less prestigious universities. For years, the humanities have been grappling with a survival crisis. If you care about university practices, spare a thought for the countless educators in lesser-funded institutions. And if you care about the survival of the humanities, oppose the market-driven logic that has been imposed on higher education.
Princeton's Shift
Princeton now offers a literature in translation degree rather than a Classics degree. Latin and Classical Greek are referred to as dead languages because they are no longer widely spoken. However, this terminology does not mean the languages or the intellectual training they offer are useless.
As a Latin teacher, my favorite rebuttal to those who argue that Latin is irrelevant is to challenge them to make a case without using any English words derived from Latin. The conversation often lasts just five words before the challenge is accepted.
Yes, we are witnessing the decline of certain academic disciplines. But it's crucial to remember that humanistic education still holds immense value. The richness of language, the timeless insights of classical thought, and the intellectual discipline these languages provide are irreplaceable. We must advocate for a holistic view of education that appreciates the diverse contributions of all fields of study.
Defending Academic Freedom
Academic freedom is at stake here. The decision to offer a degree without the ancient languages is driven by pragmatic considerations, but it also reflects broader societal changes. Students need skills that are relevant to the job market, and this shift is partly a response to real-world demands. However, it's important to ensure that these changes do not undermine the core values of a well-rounded education.
Let us not dismiss the role of classical studies in shaping the human mind and fostering critical thinking, cultural appreciation, and linguistic dexterity. The debate about the future of Classics is not just about language but about the very nature of education. We must find a balance between practicality and intellectual rigor, ensuring that future generations continue to benefit from the wisdom and insights of the past.
Conclusion
The disappearance of Classics represents a significant shift in higher education. While it may reflect the evolving needs of students and society, it also raises important questions about the value of traditional academic disciplines. As we navigate this changing landscape, let us strive to preserve the essence of humanistic education while embracing the relevance of all fields of study.