Every summer, young Greco-Roman scholars from across the country gather to participate in activities that represent the influence of Roman culture. The event is called the National Junior Classical League Convention, and this year it is being held at Wake Forest University, the first time in 59 years that it has come to North Carolina.
More than 1,400 middle and high school students from as far away as Hawaii, and Ontario Canada will participate in the 2012 National Junior Classical League Convention at Wake Forest University this week.
he convention provides an educational, offbeat summer-camp experience, encouraging appreciation for the Greco-Roman history, the language and the liberal arts.
“There are all kinds of statistics that if you study Latin your SAT scores go up because your vocabulary is so good, so it is very practical in any ways but it is also exciting," said Mary Pendergraft, Professor of Classical Languages at Wake Forest University.
"Greece and Rome are two civilizations that influenced our way of life dramatically yet they are so different from us. It’s a good way to reflect on our values and what we take from them, what we build on and leave behind,” added Pendergraft.
Besides Wake Forest University, Professors from The University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Davidson College and Hollins University in Virginia are also teaching students the historical and political lessons of Greco-Roman culture.
Pendergraft said students will participate in role playing.
“There are athletic activities, there are dramatic readings, there are costume contests, and gladiatorial games. Every night each state has a required meeting together to reflect on the day and those start at 11:30 at night, also this is a long day full of adventures,” said Pendergraft.
The 2012 National Junior Classical League Convention will be held July 26-31.
