Thomas Jefferson's views about Greek civilization after asked on an AI platform:
Thomas Jefferson held a deep appreciation for Greek and the Greek language. He believed that studying Greek was essential for a well-rounded education and a deeper understanding of Western civilization. Here's a glimpse into his thoughts:
Value of Classical Learning: Jefferson considered the ability to read Greek and Roman authors in their original languages a "luxury" that provided immense intellectual and aesthetic pleasure. He believed that classical learning should be prioritized over pursuits that merely appealed to the senses.
Importance for Religious Understanding: Jefferson saw Greek as crucial for religious scholars. He believed that the Greek translations of the Bible, particularly the New Testament, offered a clearer and more accessible understanding of the original texts than later interpretations. He also valued the writings of early Church Fathers in Greek, who lived closer to the time of Jesus and whose works were less influenced by later theological developments.
Foundation of Western Thought: Jefferson recognized the profound influence of ancient Greek philosophy, literature, and political thought on the development of Western civilization. He believed that studying Greek was essential for understanding the roots of democracy, law, and ethics.
Lifelong Pursuit: Jefferson maintained his interest in Greek throughout his life. He read Greek authors, corresponded with scholars about Greek literature and philosophy, and even studied modern Greek. Jefferson's views on Greek reflect his broader belief in the importance of classical education for cultivating informed, virtuous, and engaged citizens. He saw the study of Greek as not just an academic exercise but as a means of personal and societal improvement.
________
When DOGE finishes gutting the Department of Education returning those responsibilities back over to the individual states, unless a rigorous study of Greek is included in formal education it won't be much of an education:
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.