Another ‘classic’ event at St Andrews

Tuesday 14 June 2005

School pupils from all over Scotland demonstrated the enduring appeal of the ancient subject of Classics at a special event at the University of St Andrews today (Wednesday 15th June 2005).

Young classics scholars gathered at the University to take part in the traditional Annual Recitation and Project Competition.

Around 100 youngsters travelled from Aberdeen, Tayside, Perthshire and within Fife to perform recitals and short dramas in ancient Greek and Latin, competing against their contemporaries for cash and trophy prizes.

The competition, which has been running for around 50 years, is organised by The Tayside Branch of the Classical Association in conjunction with the University of St Andrews’ School of Classics.

This year, it attracted entrants from secondary schools throughout Scotland, including Glenalmond College, Dundee’s Harris Academy and Aberdeen’s Robert Gordon’s College. They joined local school pupils from Madras College and St Leonard’s School.

School Liaison Officer Dr Jason König of the University’s School of Greek Latin And Ancient History, described the subjects continued appeal:

“Classics subjects are really flourishing in Scotland, both at school and university level, with applications for university places up dramatically in the last five years, and the fascination many students have with the ancient languages plays a big part in that. The presence of the Roman army in Scotland is also a big factor in stimulating interest- Classics isn’t just about ancient Mediterranean societies, it’s also about understanding local history and local landscape-so it seems appropriate that we’ve got a play reflecting that fact this year”.

The competition awarded prizes at junior, intermediate and senior level – the older pupils performed readings of Latin and Greek poetry and prose while the Juniors performed a short comic play in Latin, set in a tavern near Gretna in the year AD 360, and depicting a fight between local Picts and Roman soldiers. The judging panel consisted of members of staff from the School of Classics.

ENDS

For further information about the competition, please contact Jason König, School Liaison Officer for the School of Greek Latin And Ancient History on 01334 462618.

Issued by Beattie Media On behalf of the University of St Andrews Contact Gayle Cook 01334 467227, mobile 07900 050103, or email [email protected] Ref: Another classic event pr 060605.doc View the latest University news at http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk


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