Writes James Goss, Teacher of Classics
Last Friday saw the inaugural talk of the Classics Lecture Club, a biweekly session where pupils give a presentation to an audience of their peers on a Classical subject that they are passionate about.
This week, Thomas Baldwin in the Lower 6th gave a detailed and informative talk on ancient sports, ranging from the events at the Olympic Games, to gladiator fighting and chariot racing. Thomas mentioned that the Olympic Games were founded in 776BC and comprised events such as the stadion (a running race), discus throwing and the brutal pankration (a mixture of wrestling and boxing).
Thomas also described the famous gladiator match ups, such as the ‘retiarius’ (net man) vs the ‘murmillo’ (fish). Last, but not least, chariot racing in ancient Rome was covered, including information such as their religious connection with Neptune, the god of horses, team colours (white, green, blue and red), and the fact that while charioteers were from the lowest social class in Rome, they could gain huge fame and wealth.
A thoroughly interesting talk that prompted many probing questions from intrigued pupils in the audience.
Thomas B. (L6th), gives his account:
“Last Friday, I delivered the inaugural lecture in a new series led by the Classics Department, focusing on an aspect of the ancient world that particularly interests me: sport. I was pleased to give the first talk and to set an educational and engaging standard for the rest of the year’s presentations.
In future, the talks will cover a wide range of topics spanning the entirety of the ancient world and will be open to all year groups, not solely academic classicists. Overall, the experience was a great way to begin my A Level in Classical Civilisation, allowing me to explore beyond the curriculum.”
