Who Killed Homer?

Who Killed Homer? examines the decline of classical education in American universities and its broader implications for Western culture. The book, written by classical scholars Victor Davis Hanson and John Heath, presents an analysis of how and why the study of ancient Greek civilization has diminished in higher education. The authors investigate the transformation of classics departments, tracking changes in curriculum, teaching methods, and academic priorities over several decades. They examine how modern academic culture has moved away from traditional approaches to classical education and consider the consequences of this shift. The text presents arguments for the continued relevance of Homer and classical Greek thought to modern society. It outlines specific recommendations for revitalizing classical education and reconnecting students with the foundational texts of Western civilization. This work speaks to fundamental questions about education's purpose and the role of traditional humanities in contemporary society. Its central theme addresses not just the fate of classical studies, but the broader challenge of maintaining cultural continuity in an increasingly specialized academic world.

Readers view this as a defense of classical education that identifies why Greek studies declined in universities. The book resonates with those concerned about humanities education trends. Readers appreciate: - Clear breakdown of how classics departments shifted focus - Examples showing Greek wisdom's relevance today - Detailed solutions for reviving classical studies - Historical context and comparison to modern issues Common criticisms: - Overly harsh tone toward academic specialists - Some arguments seen as politically biased - Too much focus on blame rather than solutions - Repetitive points throughout Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (328 ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (98 ratings) Reader quote: "Makes valid points about classics' decline but comes across as bitter rather than constructive" - Goodreads reviewer "The authors excel at showing why Greek thought matters but their attacks on academia undermine their message" - Amazon reviewer

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🏺 Victor Davis Hanson grew up working on his family's raisin farm in California, an experience that influenced his understanding of ancient Greek agricultural society and farming practices. 📚 The book's publication in 1998 sparked intense debate within academic circles, leading to numerous symposiums and response articles in major classics journals. 🏛️ Classical studies enrollment in American universities dropped by over 30% between 1970 and 1995, the period primarily examined in the book. 🎓 Co-author John Heath resigned from his tenured position at Santa Clara University shortly after the book's publication, citing many of the institutional issues discussed in the work. ⚔️ The book draws parallels between the fall of ancient civilizations and modern America's declining interest in classical education, suggesting that societies that forget their cultural foundations risk repeating historical mistakes.