National Classics Week 2022 2022 | Page 18

Communicatio

" If you want to go fast , go alone ; but if you want to go far , go together ." We are reminded by this African proverb about the importance of collaboration , a skill made possible only by humans ’ unique communication abilities .
Of course , all communication starts with language . Egyptian hieroglyphics , the second independently-developed written language ( dating back to 3200 BCE ), served as the basis of the Phoenician alphabet and Latin language , the latter of which significantly influenced the creation of modern English .
One of the most crucial roles of written language has been in storytelling . Not only do the Odyssey and the Metamorphoses provide insight into the rich culture of ancient Greece , but they also allow readers to experience timeless “ emotion truths .” Transcending eras of human history , these myths provide us with a space for mutual understanding and have served as the inspiration for many modern literary works . On the other hand , the ancient Romans reported stories of truth in their publication Acta Diurna ; a prototype of the modern newspaper , they were displayed in the forum and included decrees from Roman officers , official business records , and information about other matters of public interest .