Caesar will take center stage at conference for high school teachers

LAWRENCE — Although his rule ended more than 20 centuries ago, Julius Caesar remains one of the most well-known political figures in Western civilization. He has been the subject of plays, novels and films — and now an upcoming colloquium at the University of Kansas.

A daylong high school teachers’ miniconference will explore several facets of the life and legacy of Julius Caesar. The Department of Classics is hosting the conference as an opportunity to support the study of classics in the state.

“We want to provide resources to those who do so much for the study of the ancient world in Kansas,” said Tara Welch, chair of the department. “Plus, who doesn’t want to learn more about Caesar?”

The Oliver Phillips Colloquium is free to all high school teachers. KU faculty who study Caesar will lead sessions, and guest speaker Hans Friedrich Mueller, professor of classics at Union College and the author of a well-known textbook on the Roman ruler.

Subjects covered include Caesar’s religious career and his influence in the realms of grammar, film and currency. The seminar will include a visit to the Wilcox Classical Museum at KU to view coins from Caesar’s era. Teachers will also have opportunities to discuss instruction and other offerings in Latin studies programs, such as AP exams and study abroad.

The seminar begins at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 7, at the Lawrence campus. The day includes lunch and a closing reception. More information about the program, including registration, is available by contacting tswelch@ku.edu or 785-864-3153.

The colloquium is named for the late classics professor Oliver Phillips, in honor of his passion for teaching Latin. Phillips taught at KU from 1964 to 1994.

The Department of Classics is part of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. The College encourages learning without boundaries in its more than 50 departments, programs and centers. Through innovative research and teaching, the College emphasizes interdisciplinary education, global awareness and experiential learning. The College is KU's broadest, most diverse academic unit.