In a world where ancient texts are often dismissed as irrelevant or obsolete, Claudia Hauer stands as a staunch advocate for the enduring value of classical literature. As a faculty member at St. John’s College in Santa Fe, Hauer has dedicated her career to teaching students the timeless lessons contained within epic poems and philosophical treatises from over two millennia ago.
In a recent episode of EconTalk, host Russ Roberts delved into a discussion with Hauer about the importance of reading classical texts, particularly focusing on her book “Strategic Humanism: Lessons on Leadership from the Ancient Greeks.” Drawing on her experience teaching at both the U.S. Air Force Academy and St. John’s College, Hauer emphasized the relevance of ancient Greek literature to contemporary issues of war, education, and leadership.
Hauer’s approach to teaching classical texts is both pragmatic and philosophical. She challenges her students, whether they are aspiring military officers or liberal arts enthusiasts, to find value in the narratives of ancient poets like Homer. Through engaging with these texts, Hauer argues, students can gain insights into the complexities of human nature, the dynamics of power and conflict, and the enduring quest for excellence.
One of the key concepts that Hauer explores with her students is the Greek notion of technê, or craft. This concept, rooted in the idea of achieving excellence in a particular domain, serves as a framework for understanding how ancient texts can offer practical wisdom for modern readers. By studying the experiences of characters like Achilles in the Iliad, students can glean timeless lessons about loyalty, grief, and the destructive cycles of war.
Beyond the practical lessons of technê, Hauer also invites her students to contemplate the broader philosophical implications of classical literature. Drawing on the works of Plato and Aristotle, she encourages readers to explore questions of virtue, knowledge, and the nature of human existence. Through engaging with these foundational texts, Hauer argues, students can develop a deeper understanding of what it means to be human and how to navigate the complexities of the world around them.
In a society increasingly dominated by technology and digital communication, Hauer’s advocacy for the humanities serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring value of classical education. By delving into the rich tapestry of ancient Greek literature, students can not only gain practical insights into leadership and war but also cultivate a deeper appreciation for the timeless themes and universal truths that have shaped human civilization for centuries. Wisdom plays a crucial role in elevating human experience, but it is also important to acknowledge the value of simple experience in our lives. As Aristotle pointed out, experience can sometimes be more practical and beneficial than theoretical knowledge alone. This concept has been a subject of philosophical discussions for centuries, with the Greeks delving into the complexities of practical knowledge in their works.
The Greeks had a profound understanding of the practical implications of knowledge, distinguishing between contemplative wisdom and practical expertise. Their approach to acquiring knowledge offers valuable lessons for modern education systems. They emphasized the importance of hands-on skills, such as carpentry, athletics, medicine, and art, in parallel with the practice of virtue.
In today’s world, the humanities are often seen as impractical due to their lack of direct connection to job training. However, the ancient Greeks would have viewed them as a form of technê, similar to professional fields like medicine and the military. The study of humanities can benefit greatly from the insights of ancient Greek knowledge transmission, fostering a deeper understanding of humanistic disciplines.
Dr. Hauer’s decision to have her Air Force Academy students read the Iliad, a poem about war, raises questions about the relevance of ancient texts to modern audiences. The Iliad, along with the Odyssey, offers profound insights into human nature and the complexities of life, making them timeless pieces of literature.
Overall, the Greeks’ emphasis on practical knowledge and the humanities as forms of technê provides valuable lessons for contemporary education and personal growth. By drawing parallels between ancient wisdom and modern practices, we can enrich our understanding of the world and our place within it.
For further exploration of these topics, resources like the Online Library of Liberty and essays by scholars like Roosevelt Montás and Josiah Osgood offer valuable insights into the relevance of ancient Greek knowledge in today’s world. By embracing the wisdom of the past, we can enhance our present and shape a more enlightened future for generations to come.
Nancy Vander Veer, with her background in Classics and experience in teaching and fundraising, provides a unique perspective on the enduring significance of ancient Greek wisdom in our modern society. Currently pursuing a master’s degree in European Social and Economic History, she continues to explore the timeless relevance of classical knowledge in shaping our world today.
