The Classics

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God has blessed me with the capability to homeschool, and receive my education from different institutions. For six years I have taken rigorous coursework from a live, online classical school called Veritas Scholars Academy. Because of its online nature, Veritas brings together students from China, Germany, Britain, Canada, Guatemala, Africa, the United States, and beyond. This unique situation permits me to touch the surface of many different cultures and places around the world. One of the most edifying and thought-provoking elements is how my fellow classmates’ experiences and opinions contribute to our discussions, whether the topic be current political environments or religious theology. In my favorite courses at Veritas, Omnibus, we study various time periods, discussing great literature, theology, and history through the study of 27 or more books each year with titles like The Ecclesiastical History of the English People, Beowulf, and many Shakespeare plays. Some of the books I read might evoke yawns. Indeed, my very first Omnibus assignment, The Westminster Confession of Faith and Catechisms, was met with suspicion and internal groaning; however, after a steady appetite, I have come to love and appreciate these books that might otherwise collect dust on the shelf. 

As a student of the classics, I discovered some of the best teachers and intriguing individuals are long dead.  I can imagine myself in the ancient world, learning from the failings or victories of others, reveling in their successes, or enjoying a fascinating myth, inviting me to a world of sea monsters, snakes with golden horns, or talking trees.  All history presents unique opportunities; however, ancient Greek and Roman history grasp my attention in such a way that not even Achilles could tear me away.

The waves crash against the boat in Poseidon-controlled waters as I try to remain balanced with Odysseus and his men.  On the shore of the Strophades, the screams of angry harpies fill my ears as they chase away Aeneas.  Though tedious I follow Herodotus down his rabbit trails and run with Pheidippides to deliver the news of Athenian victory at Marathon.  I cheer on Publius Valerius, the friend of the Roman people, and mourn the loss of Spartan soldiers due to the betrayal of Ephialtes of Trachis.  I endure the continuous probing of Socrates, the stench of the only robe he wears bombarding my nostrils.  Though often underappreciated, studying the classics is an endeavor I would love to continue.