Winter 2020· Torch: U.S. · TO OUR TEACHERS
8
TO OUR TEACHERS:
A THOUSAND THANK-YOUS
Mr. Nicholas Unger
by Kiesse Nanor, NHJCL
"Mr. Unger exemplifies a deep-rooted appreciation for classical learning and motivates everyone around him to dive deeper into the study of classics."
In my first Latin class of high school, I sat around the table with a group of similarly apprehensive freshmen, waiting for our teacher, Mr. Unger (or Imperator, as we affectionately call him), to begin the class. Instead of the normal, mundane introductions, we were instead faced with a tall, imposing man gesticulating wildly as he spoke enthusiastically in Latin. Though we were at first intimidated by this display of rhetorical skill, the initial awkwardness soon broke down, and the class relaxed before settling in to our first lesson. The infectious energy he displayed in that first class inspired me—a freshman who had only been on campus for a few days—to join our school’s classics club. Here, I’ve not only deepened my knowledge of Greco-Roman culture and tradition, but also made some of my closest friends, both in my school and throughout the state of New Hampshire. In all my interactions with him inside and outside the classroom, Mr. Unger has never failed to rouse the spirits of all who are lucky enough to be in his presence, whether they be students taking Latin for the 6th year or parents who have come to observe their children’s Latin class. Ranging from his detailed explanations of the complexities of Roman battle strategy (model battle map and figurines included) and the gladiatorial skill that he demonstrates in the ring, Mr. Unger exemplifies a deep-rooted appreciation for classical learning and motivates everyone around him to dive deeper into the study of classics—a pursuit that he proves is both worthy and fulfilling.
Gratias vobis agimus!