The Herculaneum Scrolls - Where Ancient Literature Meets Artificial Intelligence

In the area of classical studies, something very interesting has recently unfolded—a convergence of ancient artifacts, cutting-edge technology, and scholarship. The Herculaneum scrolls, having been discovered hundreds of years ago from the ruins of a Roman villa in Herculaneum, Italy, have long tantalized researchers. Their delicate state—charred by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius nearly two millennia ago—rendered them enigmatic and mostly unable to be read.

Enter the Vesuvius Challenge, a call to arms for those versed in artificial intelligence (AI). The mission: decode these fragile papyri, revealing their hidden wisdom. The stakes were high—a minimum readability threshold of 85% for passages at least 140 characters long.

The breakthrough arrived courtesy of a trio of student researchers. Armed with machine-learning algorithms and scans of the rolled-up papyrus, they unveiled a previously unknown philosophical treatise. This text, attributed to the ancient philosopher Philodemus, traverses intriguing terrain: the senses and the idea of pleasure. Within its lines lie discussions on the delights of music, the taste of capers, and the allure of the color purple.

Why does this matter? For classicists and archaeologists, it marks a historic juncture. The scrolls, once deemed indecipherable, now yield glimpses into the intellectual ferment of antiquity. They beckon us to explore the minds of those who pondered existence, aesthetics, and the human experience.

And the prize? A grand sum of US$700,000 awaits the triumphant decipherers. But beyond the monetary reward lies a deeper promise: the potential to unravel more scrolls, to illuminate further corners of our past. These fragile remnants, once lost in the volcanic cataclysm, now emerge as conduits to ancient wisdom.

The Herculaneum scrolls are the rarest of the rare: classical literature in a form closer the original. Much of the cannon has been lost, so these scrolls present us with the more tantalizing of potential.

Ancient Trove of 2000-Year-Old Gemstones Found at the Site of a Roman Bathhouse in England

One of the main objectives of classical education is about learning from the past to understand the present. That's why we were thrilled to hear about the recent discovery of lost gems over 2,000 years old found at a Roman bath complex in England. This exciting discovery provides a window into the world of ancient Rome and showcases the remarkable skills and craftsmanship of the time.

The Roman baths were a central part of ancient Roman culture. They were not just places for hygiene, but also served as social and cultural centers. As such, the baths were decorated with intricate and beautiful mosaics and sculptures. Bathers in the case of the bathhouse in ancient Britain wore rings with sealing stones into the baths. The stones in their rings were usually made of precious stones and semi-precious stones and were often used to adorn jewelry.

The recently discovered gems were found in a vaulted area of the baths, hidden under layers of sediment and debris. The gems were originally part of a larger piece of jewelry and are engraved with images of animals, including lions, panthers, and bulls, as well as mythological figures such as Cupid and Medusa.

The discovery of these gems is a reminder of the remarkable artistic and technological achievements of ancient Rome. It also provides an opportunity for students of classical education to learn about the history and culture of ancient Rome. This can be an exciting and engaging way to learn about ancient history, art, and craftsmanship. We might ask why there were so many stones in one location. Did the ancient Romans realize that there was a chance they would lose the stones from their rings, and if so, why did they wear them into the baths?

When we encourage homeschool students to explore ancient history and culture, we hope to foster a deeper understanding of the world around them and a curiosity about the connections between the past and present. The discovery of these lost gems in the Roman baths is a fascinating glimpse into the world of ancient Rome. What does it have to do with the present? When was the last time you dropped a valuable item in water?

To learn more about the recent discovery and to see beautiful color images of the stones, here is a link to an article in Smithsonian Magazine.

Is Specialization a Myth?

In modern society, we are often led to believe that specialization in education is the key to success. We are encouraged to choose a career path early on, study a specific subject, and become an expert in that field. However, there is some evidence that the pursuit of early specialization is counterproductive. One interpretation is that early specialization can be detrimental to our personal and professional growth.

An article in The Correspondent by Michiel de Hoog titled "Why hard work and specializing early is not a recipe for success" sheds light on this issue. Bregman argues that the idea of specialization is a product of the industrial era when workers were needed to perform specific tasks in factories. However, in today's rapidly changing world, the ability to adapt and learn new skills is more important than ever.

One of the main problems with early specialization is that it can limit our potential. When we focus on one subject or skill set, we become narrow-minded and miss out on opportunities to explore other areas of interest. This can lead to a lack of creativity and innovation, which are critical for success in today's world.

Moreover, de Hoog argues that early specialization can lead to burnout and disillusionment. When we spend all our time and energy on one subject or skill, we can become bored and lose motivation. This can lead to a lack of enthusiasm for our work, which can ultimately impact our success and happiness.

Another problem with early specialization is that it can be limiting in terms of career options. In today's world, many jobs require a broad range of skills and knowledge, and employers are looking for candidates who can adapt to changing circumstances. By specializing too early, we may be closing ourselves off from opportunities that require a more diverse skill set. Link to article about specialization.

Self-Directed Learning

In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on self-directed learning in the homeschool community as an alternative to traditional education models. Self-directed learning, also known as self-directed education, is an approach to education that emphasizes the importance of allowing children to take control of their own learning process. As an educator, I believe that self-directed learning can offer a wealth of benefits for children, both academically and personally.

One of the most significant benefits of self-directed learning is that it allows children to take ownership of their own education. Instead of being dictated to by a curriculum or a teacher, children are able to pursue their own interests and passions, and to learn at their own pace. This can be particularly beneficial for children who may not thrive in traditional classroom settings, as it allows them to customize their learning experience to fit their unique needs and learning style. When teaching Latin class, I try to keep an idea of our trajectory while also leaving space to follow the interests of individual students. Sometimes an interesting student question can lead us on a multiple class discovery process of the nuances of ancient Roman history or culture, for example.

In addition to promoting academic success, self-directed learning can also help children to develop a range of valuable life skills. For example, when children are given the freedom to pursue their own interests, they are often more motivated to learn and to take initiative. This can help them to develop a sense of independence and self-confidence, as well as skills such as problem-solving, decision-making, and time-management. I believe that cultivating the intrinsic motivation of students is the primary goal of educators.

Another key benefit of self-directed learning is that it fosters creativity and innovation. When children are encouraged to think outside the box and to explore their own interests, they are more likely to develop new and innovative ideas.

Of course, it is important to note that self-directed learning is not without its challenges. Children who are accustomed to traditional classroom settings may struggle initially with the freedom and responsibility that comes with self-directed learning. However, with support and guidance from parents and educators, most children are able to adapt to this new approach and to thrive academically and personally.

Latin and Modern Languages

Learning Latin can be an enriching experience for anyone interested in language and history. Beyond its value as a language of scholarship, literature, and myth, Latin can also help students learn modern spoken languages in surprising ways.

Latin is the root of modern Romance languages such as Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese, and Romanian. By studying Latin, students gain a better understanding of the vocabulary and grammar structures that form the foundation of these languages. I can personally attest to this, as I am currently residing in Mexico City and using Latin every day in my Spanish classes. Latin can help students recognize and decipher cognates and understand the grammar rules that govern them. For instance, if you know that the Latin word "amare" means "to love," you can easily recognize the Spanish "amar," the French "aimer," and the Italian "amare,"

Learning Latin can improve overall language learning skills. Latin is known for its complex grammar and syntax, which requires focus and attention to detail. By studying Latin, students train their brains to recognize patterns, develop analytical skills, and build vocabulary. These skills are transferable to other languages, and not only languages that are derived from Latin.

Studying Latin can give students a deeper understanding of English. Many English words are derived from Latin, and by learning Latin, one can gain a better understanding of the etymology of these words. Knowing the roots of English words can also help with understanding their meanings and usage in context. For example, the Latin word "re" means "again," and when added to the word "iterate," (iter in Latin means trip or journey) it creates "reiterate," which means "to say or do again" (lit. to take another trip).

To conclude, learning Latin can be a valuable asset to anyone interested in language and culture. The benefits of studying Latin extend beyond simply learning the language itself. It can improve students’ overall language learning skills, help them recognize and understand cognates in modern languages, and give a deeper understanding of English. These are the reasons homeschoolers are learning Latin.

Ancient Mythology Inspires Homeschool Students to Learn Latin and Greek

I have observed a trend: students interested in ancient Roman and Greek mythology develop a fascination with these civilizations' culture and mythology and seek opportunities to learn more. Often, this interest prompts them to study Latin and Greek.

Gods, Goddesses, Monsters, ancient customs, and ancient travel. All inspire a desire to understand the original mythological texts and sources. These myths reference gods, heroes, and historical figures from antiquity. By delving into these stories, students realize that myths are not merely entertainment but also gateways to the ancient world's culture, history, and language.

Furthermore, studying Latin and Greek offers a deeper understanding of the cultural context in which the myths originated. By reading original ancient texts, students gain nuanced insights into language, literature, and philosophy. They also gain a greater appreciation for the rich cultural heritage that has shaped Western civilization.

In addition, studying Latin and Greek develops crucial language skills. Learning a new language demands precision and attention to detail, which are essential not only for language study but also other academic pursuits.

Finally, studying Latin and Greek offers homeschool students a unique intellectual challenge. Acquiring ancient language skills requires mastering vocabulary acquisition, grammar, syntax, and translation. These skills offer intellectual stimulation and a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction when mastered.

Why Homeschool?

As a teacher of homeschool students, I often get asked about my thoughts on this educational path from families considering homeschooling as well as parents of students in traditional schools. Simply put, I believe that homeschooling has the potential to foster a lifetime love of learning in ways that traditional schooling may not.

One of the reasons why homeschooling is highly effective at promoting a love of learning is that it allows children to explore their interests and passions in a way that's often impossible in a traditional classroom setting. By enabling your child to pursue the subjects they find most fascinating, they are more likely to become deeply engaged with the material and develop a genuine enthusiasm for learning.

Moreover, homeschooling provides children with a level of flexibility that's not easily achievable in a traditional school. Whether it's the ability to learn at their own pace, travel with family to places studied, take breaks when needed, or delve into a particular subject without the constraints of a rigid curriculum, homeschooling can be tailored to meet the unique needs and interests of each child.

However, homeschooling can be challenging. Parents may find it tough to balance teaching and arranging classes with other responsibilities, and finding the right resources and support systems to help their child thrive can be a daunting task.

Despite these challenges, I strongly believe that homeschooling is one of the best ways to encourage a lifelong love of learning in your child. By providing a personalized education that fosters curiosity, exploration, and a deep appreciation for knowledge, homeschooling equips children with the skills and attitudes needed to succeed in school and beyond.

With the right resources, support, and commitment, homeschooling can offer your child a rich, rewarding educational experience that will stay with them for a lifetime.

Ancient Snack Bar in Pompeii

The recent excavation of a thermopolium at Pompeii has revealed new insights into the daily life and culture of the ancient city. A thermopolium was essentially an ancient Roman fast food restaurant, where customers could purchase food and drink from a counter. This particular thermopolium (one of likely over 100!) was discovered in 2019, but excavation work has continued, revealing new details about the business and its customers.

The thermopolium is located in the Regio V section of Pompeii, which was only recently opened to the public after decades of restoration work. The area was buried by volcanic ash and pumice in 79 AD, when Mount Vesuvius erupted, preserving much of the city's architecture and artifacts.

The excavation has uncovered several frescoes that depict the types of food and drink that were sold at the thermopolium. The frescoes show various animals, including chickens, ducks, and pigs, as well as a variety of fish and seafood. There are also depictions of fruits, nuts, and wine jugs, suggesting that the thermopolium offered a wide range of options to its customers.

One of the most exciting discoveries was a decorated lararium, or household shrine, which was located in a small room adjacent to the counter. The lararium would have been used to worship the household gods and to ask for their protection. This finding is significant because it suggests that the owners of the thermopolium may have been wealthier than previously thought.

Another interesting feature of the thermopolium is the presence of serving holes, which would have allowed customers to access the food and drink on offer. These holes were covered with a type of volcanic rock that would have helped to keep the food warm. Food discovered by archaeozoologists (amazing job title, right!?) in one amphora was a stew consisting of fish, sheep, and snails! Also discovered was evidence of wine lightened in color with fava bean powder.  

The excavation has also revealed evidence of the people who frequented the thermopolium. The remains of a dog were found in the same room as the lararium, suggesting that the owners may have had a pet. Additionally, the bones of a man and a woman were discovered nearby, leading to speculation that they may have been customers or employees of the thermopolium.

The ongoing excavation work at Pompeii continues to reveal new insights into the daily life and culture of the ancient city. The discovery of this thermopolium has shed light on the types of food and drink that were available to ordinary people, as well as the religious practices of the city's inhabitants. As excavation work continues, it is likely that further discoveries will be made, offering a glimpse into the fascinating world of ancient Rome.

Images of the wonderful and vivid frescoes can be seen at Atlas Obscura.

Why Homeschool Students are Learning Latin

In recent years, there has been a growing trend of homeschool students learning Latin. The language of the ancient Romans has been used for centuries as the language of scholarship, law, and science. In this blog post, we will explore why homeschool students are learning Latin and the benefits of studying this ancient language.

Why are homeschool students learning Latin?

Homeschool students are learning Latin for a variety of reasons. For some, it is a way to gain a deeper understanding of the roots of the English language. Many English words are derived from Latin, and learning Latin can help students to expand their vocabulary and improve their writing and communication skills. The same students often study Romance languages such as Spanish or French, in which the grammatical understanding as well as vocabulary gained from studying Latin is of great help. 

As Latin was the language of the Roman Empire, it had a significant impact on the development of Western culture. By studying Latin, homeschool students can gain insights into the history, literature, and art of the ancient world. A full understanding of the ancient world and the roots of western culture must always include the diversity represented in the ancient world. Many voices and histories have been overlooked in classical education, and it is a priority of Seven Hills Online Classical to present a more holistic picture of the ancient world and all of its diversity.

Many homeschool students come to Latin with an avid interest in ancient mythology. They have learned about the gods and goddesses of ancient Greece and Rome and seek to read some of the original texts. Latin is sometimes called a “dead language,” but the language is very much alive in the creative writings of students and their continued interest in the subject. This creativity and “play” approach to Classical Studies is one element of what we seek to present at Seven Hills Online Classical.

Finally, some homeschool students are learning Latin as a way to prepare for college. Many colleges and universities require students to take at least one year of a foreign language, and Latin is often a popular choice because it can help students to build a strong foundation in grammar, vocabulary, and translation skills. I personally can attest to learning English grammar via Latin, and feel that learning the art of translation has helped my writing in English.

Learning Latin can be a valuable experience for homeschool students. Whether it is to improve language skills, gain cultural context, explore ancient mythology and literature, or prepare for college, the benefits of studying Latin are numerous. As the popularity of homeschooling continues to grow, it is likely that more and more students will choose to learn this ancient language.

Diversity in the Classics

The field of Classical Studies has long experienced a lack of diversity and inclusion. The results of this are often an inaccurate picture of what life was actually like in the ancient world.  

Why is diversity important in Classical Studies?

Diversity is important in any field of study because it brings different perspectives and experiences. In Classical Studies, diversity is especially crucial because the field has been traditionally dominated by white, male scholars who have focused on the writings and achievements of other white, male scholars. This narrow focus has resulted in the exclusion of many voices and perspectives, including those of women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people from non-Western cultures.

By promoting diversity in Classical Studies, we can bring attention to the contributions of individuals who have been historically marginalized, and we can expand our understanding of the ancient world. This can lead to new insights and interpretations of texts and artifacts, as well as a more inclusive and accurate representation of the past.

Many organizations and individuals are working to promote diversity in Classical Studies. Here are a few examples:

The Society for Classical Studies (SCS) has established a Task Force on Race and Ethnicity to address issues of diversity and inclusivity in the field. The Task Force has recommended a number of initiatives, including diversifying the curriculum, increasing the representation of scholars from underrepresented groups in leadership positions, and promoting mentoring programs for students from underrepresented groups.

The Multiculturalism, Race & Ethnicity in Classics Consortium (MRECC) is a grassroots organization that aims to promote diversity and inclusivity in Classical Studies. MRECC sponsors conferences, workshops, and other events that highlight the contributions of scholars from underrepresented groups and foster a more inclusive environment in the field.

Many individual scholars are also working to promote diversity in Classical Studies by incorporating perspectives from underrepresented groups in their research and teaching. For example, some scholars are studying the contributions of women and people of color in the ancient world, while others are exploring how ancient texts and artifacts have been used to support systems of oppression.

Conclusion

Diversity is crucial for promoting a much more accurate understanding of the ancient world. By expanding our focus beyond the writings and achievements of white, male scholars, we can bring attention to the contributions of individuals who have been historically marginalized and gain new insights into the past. Many organizations and individuals are working to promote diversity in Classical Studies, and it is important that we continue to support these efforts.