Writes James Goss, Teacher of Classics
Last Friday saw the second session 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, Ryan C. (L6th) gave a fascinating talk on science in the ancient world, ranging from the water-based alarm clock invented by Plato to the reorganisation of the calendar into the modern form we use today. Ryan described the famous Archimedes screw, which was used for moving water uphill to feed water irrigation systems. He also detailed an anthropomorphic robot which, when you put a cup in its hand, would sense the cup and pour wine into it. Perhaps the most surprising is the Roman culinary invention of the burger, or “isicia omentata” in Latin, made with mincemeat, pepper, wine, pine nuts and the ubiquitous fish sauce, garum. It was a fascinating tour of the scientific discoveries that have helped shape the world today.
Here is what Ryan had to say on the experience:
“Last Friday, I gave the second presentation in the Classics Lecture Series, focusing on science in the ancient world. Science is an area I struggle with, and I was really excited I could share my findings with other people who have keen interests in the ancient world. I thought the whole experience was an excellent and immersive way to start my Classical Civilisation A-level and I am looking forward to the lectures in the future.”
