Classics can be split into 3 main categories: philosophy, poetry and oratory.

Latin as a language was the main language of literature until the 16 th century with much of European history being studied through literature written in Latin. Examples of modern traditions being influenced by old classical figures include Julius Caesar renaming July and August after himself and his adopted son Augustus; the famous phrase “carpe diem” is a Latin phrase that translates to “seize the day” and is used all around the world; many other words derive from Latin such as absent, decapitate, dictate, gladiator, fidelity, social, stellar and many more.

Writers such as Homer, Virgil, and Sophocles explored universal themes of heroism, fate, and morality that still resonate today. Virgil’s famous work The Aeneid asks the age-old question of whether the sacrifices of a few is worth it if done for the greater good. The works of philosophers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle laid the foundation for modern ethics, political theory, and logic. Concepts such as democracy, justice, and virtue, first articulated in ancient texts, continue to shape contemporary political and philosophical debates. Dystopian novels, for example, echo the political critiques found in Plato’s “Republic.” In this, he asks questions on morality and particularly what the proper standard of goodness and justice is. Questions raised by Aristotle on the purpose of life and the best form of governance are still central to modern discussions on ethics and public policy. By studying classical literature and philosophy, we engage with ideas that have withstood the test of time and continue to influence modern perspectives.

Greek drama, particularly the works of tragedians like Aeschylus, Sophocles, and
Euripides, as well as the comedies of Aristophanes, have had a lasting impact on
theatre and literature. These plays introduced complex character development,
dramatic irony, and moral dilemmas that still influence modern storytelling. The
themes explored in these works—such as fate versus free will, justice, and the
nature of power—are still relevant in contemporary literature and film. Watching or reading a Greek tragedy like Oedipus Rex or a comedy such as Lysistrata allows audiences to experience deep emotions while reflecting on societal values and ethical questions. In both tragedies and comedies, we are forced to reflect on
questions such as “are there divine forces that control the universe?” or “is
everything that happens inevitable and an outcome determined by some gods?”

Classical oratory, as perfected by figures such as Cicero and Demosthenes, remains a cornerstone of persuasive speech. The principles of rhetoric established in antiquity—ethos (credibility), pathos (emotion), and logos (logic)—continue to be the foundation of effective public speaking, political discourse, and legal argumentation. The techniques used by ancient orators to sway audiences are still employed in modern politics, law, and advertising. For example, Cicero’s speeches demonstrate how to structure arguments and appeal to an audience’s values. Modern politics, particularly Donald Trump can be seen using the rhetoric techniques established back in Classical times: repetition, tricolon and various rhythm changes are notable points.

And if you can’t find a reason to like the Classics after all of those other points, there is still the reason that the language is simply extremely well-crafted. The language serves as a root for many modern languages and the sheer influence that it has on English, Spanish, French, Italian and other languages cannot be understated. Classics is all around us; it is an exciting subject with so many different categories within it. Classics has influenced some of the most successful modern books as well such as Percy Jackson as well as Ulyesses by Rick Riordan and James Joyce respectively.

In conclusion, the study of the classics enriches our understanding of literature,
language, and oratory, while also offering timeless insights into what it means to be human. It bridges the gap between ancient and modern, reminding us that the
questions we deal with today are often the same ones that occupied the greatest
minds of antiquity.