Torch: U.S. LXXIII Spring 2024 | Page 16

Torch: U.S. · Spring 2024 · CLASSICALIA 2024 RECAP

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Io Lupercalia!

Classicalia 2024 was a success! Occurring on February 17, the event was themed around Lupercalia, and saw JCLers from across the country attend. Students played games, did service, and heard presentations from other JCLers and guests.

Student presentations included “Antiquity’s Forgotten Women and their Modern Relevance” by Claire Jiang of Georgia, “Lupercalia, Beans, and the Ancient World” by Julianna Lee of Massachusetts, and “The Roman Relationship with Refugees, Immigrants, and Foreigners” by Van Mueller of Georgia. Our guest speaker, a PhD candidate from the University of Cincinnati, Kelsey Schalo, gave a captivating talk about magic and witches in the ancient world.

Gratias maximas vobis ago,

Classicalia 2024

Sophie Heitfield

NJCL First Vice President

Classicalia 2024

Meet the Student Speakers

Claire Jiang, GA

1. How did you find the topic of your presentation? What inspired you?

My presentation, “All Roads Lead to Rome: Antiquity’s Forgotten Women And Their Modern Relevance,” highlighted the enduring influence of antiquity on contemporary society. I explored Roman philosophy surrounding women and their forgotten contributions to history. Over the summer, I had the opportunity to visit Greece and conduct research on ancient migration in the Mediterranean. More specifically, I examined how female mobility was frequent yet biased and often overlooked in Latin literature. I realized that there are too many unsung female figures who achieved so much in a society that didn’t fully value them. Thus, through my lecture, I intended to shed light on past and present struggles.

2. What drew you to speak during Classicalia?

As an event for students by students, Classicalia encourages creativity, collaboration, and most importantly, the pursuit of knowledge. Classicalia provided a forum to share why I love the Classics, how the Classics shape society today, and what lessons we can take from the Classics. It was incredibly meaningful to share my experiences and hopefully, inspire others to continue studying the Classics.

Meet the Student Speakers