Virgil Beats Shakespeare: Students' Verdict
February 2022
University of Cambridge

Introduction
Ever thought Virgil could beat Shakespeare in a literary showdown? According to a study from the University of Cambridge, students aged 15-16 dig Virgil’s Aeneid way more than other "high-prestige" literature, despite only exploring tiny bits of it in Latin class. They're all in for the action-packed and myth-filled snippets, even if their overall picture of the epic might be a tad "distorted." This eye-opening research not only challenges our curriculum but also suggests a hunger for ancient tales that rival modern video games in excitement. Dive into this fascinating find and see why Virgil’s ancient epic could be the next big thing in literature classes!
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Unraveling the Tapestry of Ancient Texts
Imagine diving into a world where mythological creatures roam, heroes embark on epic quests, and the stakes are as high as the gods themselves. This isn't just the plot of a blockbuster movie; it's the essence of studying ancient literature like Virgil's Aeneid. Why does this matter to you? Well, it turns out that exploring these ancient stories can be more thrilling and engaging than you might think, even more so than some modern 'prestige' literature. The Aeneid, with its fast-paced action and rich mythological themes, has surprisingly captured the hearts of students just like you, revealing a potential treasure trove of literary enjoyment and understanding waiting to be unlocked. This journey into ancient texts isn't just about reading old stories; it's about connecting with human emotions, challenges, and triumphs that have echoed through time. By delving into these epic tales, you're not only uncovering the past; you're also discovering new ways to see the world and yourself.
Speak like a Scholar

Epic
A long poem, typically derived from ancient oral tradition, narrating the deeds and adventures of heroic or legendary figures or the history of a nation.

Mythology
A collection of myths, especially one belonging to a particular religious or cultural tradition. It's the study of these myths and the exploration of the gods, heroes, and creatures within them.

Narrative
The spoken or written account of connected events; a story. It's how the plot unfolds and is told to the reader.

Cultural capital
The accumulation of knowledge, behaviors, and skills that one can tap into to demonstrate one’s cultural competence and social status.

Decontextualized
Something removed from its original context or background to be examined or considered separately.

Interdisciplinary
Involving two or more academic, scientific, or artistic areas of knowledge. It's about crossing boundaries between subjects to create new insights.
Independent Research Ideas

The role of mythology in modern storytelling
Investigate how ancient myths have influenced contemporary novels, movies, and video games. This could reveal how timeless themes from the past continue to shape our stories today.

Epic narratives across cultures
Compare the narrative structures and themes of the Aeneid with those of other epic texts from different cultures, such as the Mahabharata or the Epic of Gilgamesh. This study could highlight universal aspects of human storytelling.

Cultural capital and education
Explore how 'prestige' texts like the Aeneid contribute to cultural capital within education systems. This could involve examining how literature is selected for study and its impact on students' social and academic development.

The emotional impact of ancient literature
Research how descriptions of heroism, sacrifice, and tragedy in ancient texts like the Aeneid affect modern readers emotionally. This could involve psychological theories on empathy and narrative engagement.

Interdisciplinary teaching approaches with ancient texts
Investigate how ancient literature can be integrated into other subjects, such as history, art, or drama, to enhance learning and engagement. This could uncover new methods for making ancient texts relevant and exciting for students today.
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