In a 1925 essay, classics professor Carol Wight recounted meeting a mechanic who read Thucydides, stating that the ancient historian made him think. This encounter raises the question often posed to students of classics: "What good will that do you?" The author reflects on their own experience as a classics major, noting the skepticism surrounding the practicality of such studies, especially in light of advancements in AI that threaten traditional job markets.
Historically, classical languages like Greek and Latin were central to education, but their prominence has declined as modern fields gained importance. Scholar Gilbert Murray defended classical education in 1955, countering critics who deemed it impractical. By the late 19th century, figures like Albert S. Bolles argued for a broader curriculum that included more contemporary subjects.
As discussions about the relevance of human skills continue, particularly regarding AI's capabilities, the author suggests that the true value of a classical education lies not in practical skills but in the deeper understanding and human connection it fosters. The essay concludes with a quote from the mechanic, emphasizing the dual nature of learning: it can help one do something, but it can also help one become someone.