What do we know about education in ancient times

Contents:

• Who needs Antiquity in the digital age
• How ancient experience helps solve modern problems
• The well-forgotten old and debates about the eternal
• Were there universities in antiquity?
• Debate about education on the theater stage
• What we know about schools and what we don't know
• What we know about the status of teachers

A brief summary is a concise piece of information that helps you quickly become familiar with the key aspects of a particular topic. It can include key facts, data, and conclusions, allowing the reader to gain a general understanding without in-depth study. This format is especially useful for people who need to quickly grasp the essence of an issue or obtain the necessary information to make a decision. Brief reports are often used in business, education, and scientific research, where efficiency and clarity of presentation of information are important.

Victoria Pichugina is a Doctor of Pedagogical Sciences and a professor at the Russian Academy of Education (RAO). She is a leading research fellow at the Institute for Education Development Strategy of the Russian Academy of Education and a professor in the V. A. Slastyonin Department of Pedagogy and Psychology of Professional Education at Moscow State Pedagogical University. Victoria Pichugina is also the editor-in-chief of the scientific journal Hypothekai and the author of several monographs, anthologies, and research articles on the history of pedagogy. In 2020, she was awarded the Moscow Government Prize for Young Scientists. Her main research interests include the study of the pedagogical legacy of Antiquity and its influence on the history of Western European education, as well as the analysis of the evolution of educational spaces in both ancient and modern cities.

Photo: Alexandra Karpova, Moscow Educational TV Channel.

In the interview, we examined key topics, including current issues and interesting aspects that will help better understand current trends and challenges in our field. We also touched on important points regarding future prospects and development strategies, and shared expert opinions on the most influential factors. This discussion provides valuable information for anyone who wants to keep up with the latest news and changes.

• how the ancient experience helps solve modern problems;
• why Socrates paid for his pedagogy with his life;
• the fact that the concepts of Lifelong Learning, self-education and soft skills training come from Antiquity;
• how heated debates about education were played out on the theater stage;
• how schools taught writing from the texts of Euripides;
• why we lack knowledge about Antiquity today.

Who needs Antiquity in the digital age?

The study of the history of pedagogy, including ancient history, is of great importance for modern education. Understanding the roots of pedagogical theories and practices helps to realize how they influenced the development of educational systems and approaches. Ancient pedagogy laid the foundations upon which modern teaching and educational methods are built. Understanding historical paradigms allows us to avoid the mistakes of the past and adapt successful strategies to new conditions. Furthermore, studying ancient pedagogy helps develop critical thinking by analyzing how ancient philosophical ideas continue to influence our perception of education in the modern world. Thus, understanding the historical context of pedagogy enriches the educational process and promotes a deeper understanding of current trends in education. Studying the history of pedagogy is important for several groups of people. First, these are future educators who seek to understand the development of educational theories and practices in order to effectively apply them in their work. Second, researchers and scholars working in the field of pedagogy require knowledge of the historical context to analyze current trends and formulate new approaches. A third group are policymakers and administrators in the field of education, who value understanding how historical processes have influenced the modern educational system. Finally, the fourth group is parents and the public interested in better understanding how educational methods and approaches have evolved over time, which can help them make more informed decisions about raising and educating their children. Studying the history of pedagogy allows all of these groups to deepen their knowledge and approach educational issues consciously.

Scholars such as historians of education and specialists from related fields play a key role in the development of the humanities. Understanding the history of pedagogy is an important aspect for the formation of general humanities knowledge. This knowledge helps researchers more deeply comprehend contemporary educational practices and improve teaching methods.

The humanities understand well that destroying existing foundations rarely leads to positive results. Attempting to build something new on the ruins of the old often proves ineffective. It is important to preserve and develop what already exists in order to create a stable and harmonious foundation for the future.

The second group of interested parties are teachers of pedagogical universities and colleges. Knowledge of the history of pedagogy is crucial for them to develop a comprehensive understanding of the profession in students and help them find their place within it. Furthermore, this knowledge allows teachers themselves to recognize that creating something new sometimes leads to the repetition of familiar ideas, which can serve as a warning to their students.

The broad audience of those interested includes students, their parents, and anyone who wants to connect with the past through the lens of the present.

Studying the history of pedagogy helps them understand whether new teaching methods should be created or whether it is sufficient to update existing approaches. This knowledge facilitates more informed choices in educational practice, allowing them to effectively utilize past experience and adapt it to contemporary requirements.

A group of active teachers, or practitioners, consider the history of pedagogy as a means of legitimizing their professional work. By turning to the pedagogical heritage, they choose relevant and viable methods based on time-tested approaches. Thus, a connection to the past helps them refine their practices and adapt the experiences of previous generations to modern learning conditions.

My interest in ancient pedagogy arose from a deep fascination with the educational approaches of ancient civilizations. Ancient pedagogy offers unique methods and philosophical foundations that are still relevant today. Studying the works of thinkers such as Plato and Aristotle allows us to understand how they shaped the educational systems of their time. Their ideas on education, personal development, and the importance of critical thinking inspire modern educators. I became fascinated with the study of ancient pedagogy because it helps us rethink modern teaching methods, enriching them with historical context and philosophical foundations.

While preparing for my PhD dissertation on anthropological and pedagogical concepts in Russia in the second half of the 19th and early 20th centuries, I noticed that, when researching any aspect of the topic, connections to Antiquity invariably arise. This realization led me to the decision to delve deeper into the study of this particular era. As a result, my doctoral dissertation was devoted to ancient pedagogy, which allowed me to explore in more detail the influence of ancient ideas on the development of educational systems and pedagogical approaches.

How the Ancient Experience Helps Solve Modern Problems

The history of ancient pedagogy offers valuable lessons for modern society. Ancient philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle developed the foundations of educational methods that remain relevant today. They emphasized the importance of critical thinking, self-knowledge, and moral education. These principles can be useful in the modern educational process, promoting the development of not only academic skills but also personal qualities.

Furthermore, ancient pedagogy emphasized the importance of dialogue and discussion in learning, which contributes to a deeper understanding of the material and the development of communication skills. Modern educational systems can borrow these approaches to create more effective and engaging teaching methods.

Thus, studying ancient pedagogy not only enriches our understanding of educational traditions but also suggests strategies that can improve the quality of education in our time.

The history of pedagogy, like any other history, does not always provide direct lessons. However, it does provide valuable information for addressing systemic problems. Understanding the past allows us to see a broader range of solutions in the present, which is especially important for an effective educational process. Moreover, studying historical examples in pedagogy helps avoid many mistakes in the future and contributes to the development of more sustainable educational practices.

In antiquity, it is important to focus not on specific educational methods and techniques, but on the basic principles that underlie them. These principles can serve as a foundation for modern approaches to teaching and education. Studying ancient philosophy, rhetoric, and pedagogy will help us understand how educational ideas were formed and how they can be adapted to modern realities. Thus, focusing on fundamental principles will create a deeper and more effective educational space, where not only knowledge but also critical thinking, creativity, and personal development are valued.

When people ask me what ancient learning could be integrated into modern education, I sometimes joke, suggesting using wax tablets for writing. However, in reality, many centuries lie between our era and antiquity, making it difficult to borrow practices and methods. Moreover, relatively little is known about the educational system of the ancient world, making any attempts to transfer their experience to the modern world problematic. Nevertheless, it is worth considering certain philosophical approaches and ideas that could enrich the modern educational space.

Antiquity provides unique ideas and concepts that help us understand the fundamental approaches to solving eternal questions and problems. These questions arise at the intersection of education and other social institutions. Studying ancient philosophical traditions and educational systems can significantly enrich our modern understanding of the interaction between education and society. It is important to consider that the legacy of ancient culture continues to influence contemporary educational practices and ideologies, making it relevant for analyzing contemporary issues in education.

Please provide an example so I can help you with editing the text.

At the intersection of education and politics, culture and art, interesting practices emerge that shape educational spaces in cities. Modern methods of organizing educational events, such as lectures and discussions in open spaces, find their roots in ancient traditions. For example, the city square, known as the agora, served as an important space for the exchange of knowledge and ideas. These historical examples highlight the significance of open spaces for education, which is relevant in the modern context.

Ancient history provides valuable lessons about the interaction between education and politics. In ancient Greece and Rome, education played a key role in shaping civic consciousness and political activity. Philosophers such as Plato and Aristotle emphasized the importance of education in developing virtuous citizens capable of participating in government.

In Sparta and Athens, the education systems aimed to prepare young people for their roles in society. In Sparta, the emphasis was on physical education and discipline, consistent with the city's military culture. In Athens, by contrast, emphasis was placed on the development of critical thinking and rhetoric, which contributed to the active participation of citizens in democratic processes.

Political ideas from ancient times, such as the concept of civic rights and responsibilities, continue to influence modern educational systems. Education in antiquity was not an isolated process; it actively shaped political identity and social norms. Thus, studying ancient history can help modern societies better understand how education can serve as a foundation for active civic participation and political stability.

The text emphasizes the importance of balancing political demand and political mandate in education. The example of Antiquity shows how ideology influences educational processes. This raises questions about the rightness or wrongness of political intervention in education, especially when it comes to the formation of civic consciousness and patriotism. The question of the extent to which politics influences educational systems and how education is embedded in political contexts has remained relevant for centuries. Discussing these topics is important for understanding the roles of education and politics in modern society.

The story of Socrates' death provides an important example in the context of politics and philosophy. The charges brought against him lacked sufficient grounds for a death sentence. The outcome of his trial demonstrates that Socrates' pedagogical views were perceived by the state as a threat to the existing order. Socrates challenged accepted norms and called for critical thinking, which aroused concern among the authorities. Thus, his death became not only a tragic page in the history of philosophy but also a vivid example of the conflict between individual freedom and political regime.

Socrates opposed democracy, considering it a form of government by an uneducated majority. He believed that a large number of people without sufficient knowledge could make important decisions without realizing their consequences. At the same time, the educated minority, understanding the harm of such decisions, is unable to convince the majority due to the numerical superiority of their votes. If in modern society someone were to propose introducing an educational qualification for participation in elections, it would cause a huge scandal, as it did in his time, when such ideas were perceived as a threat to the existing order. This approach raises important questions about the role of education in politics and how to ensure more informed decisions in governing society.

Socrates selected his students from among people with the potential for future political activity. He realized that, by applying his teaching methods, he was creating a group of students who, having found themselves in important government positions, could act against democracy. As a result, Socrates was eliminated as a potentially dangerous educator, and formal charges became only a cover for his punishment.

Ancient philosophy contains fundamental ideas about education that can be relevant in a modern context. One such idea is the desire for the harmonious development of the individual, where both mental and physical aspects are important. Ancient thinkers emphasized the importance of critical thinking and independent pursuit of knowledge, which remains relevant in the modern information environment. Also worth noting is the concept of civic education, which involves the development of an active position of an individual in society and responsibility for a shared future. These ideas, which were fundamental in antiquity, deserve attention and can be successfully integrated into modern educational practice.

Education in modern society is often perceived as a service, which, in my opinion, is an erroneous approach. This perception leads many to forget the importance of quality education for personal and social development. In recent years, the emphasis on educational services has overshadowed the true value of knowledge and skills that shape our personality and influence the future of society. We need to rethink our attitude to education and restore its status as an important element in the life of every person.

For the ancient Greeks and Romans, education was a vital value that contributed to finding one's place in life and achieving happiness. This attitude towards knowledge was not consumerist in nature; On the contrary, it was based on a deep respect and admiration for the importance of education. Education was considered the key to self-improvement and social status, shaping the individual and contributing to the development of society.

In the modern discussion of education, especially in the context of its future, we lack depth of analysis. It is important not only to talk about problems but also to consider possible solutions. Education is the foundation of society’s development, and its fate requires a careful approach and constructive dialogue. It is necessary to consider various aspects, including innovative teaching methods and their impact on the development of students’ competencies. Only in this way can we develop effective strategies and ensure quality education for future generations.

Well-forgotten old and debates about the eternal

In modern educational trends, one can clearly observe the influence of ancient concepts. Many ideas of ancient philosophers, such as the importance of critical thinking, discussion, and dialogue, remain relevant today. Modern teaching methods, including active student participation and project-based learning, echo approaches developed in ancient Greece and Rome. The emphasis on developing individuality and striving for self-improvement, characteristic of ancient philosophy, are also reflected in modern educational systems. This demonstrates that many principles laid down in ancient times continue to be important in shaping an effective educational process.

The modern concept of lifelong learning, or continuous education, is a relevant continuation of the ancient practice of "self-care." This idea centers on a person consciously choosing their educational path and developing throughout their life, using both independent efforts and the assistance of mentors. This approach allows for the achievement of goals and adaptation to changes in the surrounding world.

Ancient texts often raise the issue of quasi-education, exploring the differences between true and pseudo-education. In particular, the heroes of Plato's dialogues "Sophist" and "Gorgias" discuss this issue, analyzing what constitutes true education and what is merely an illusion. These reflections remain relevant today, emphasizing the importance of a deep understanding of education and its true goals.

The topic of quasi-education is relevant in today's context, where there is a desire to obtain diplomas and certificates instead of a genuine desire for knowledge. In modern education, the emphasis is shifting to formal attributes, which raises questions about the real value of acquired knowledge. Educational institutions and employers increasingly focus on the presence of documents rather than the quality of education and the level of competencies. This leads many to seek qualifications without delving into the subject matter, calling into question the effectiveness of the educational system as a whole.

Cicero reflected on the influence of Greek education on the Roman educational system and whether the Romans should follow their own path or rely on ancient Greek traditions. These reflections led him to formulate principles that we understand today as humane pedagogy. Seneca emphasized the importance of self-knowledge and self-study, indicating a departure from the Greek concept, where learning entailed assistance from a mentor. Thus, the discussion of the importance of self-education and self-development remains relevant today.

Ancient philosophers actively discussed issues of education, focusing on its goals, methods, and significance for the individual development of society. They considered how education shapes a person's moral and intellectual qualities. Plato, for example, emphasized the importance of educating the soul through philosophy and mathematics, considering them necessary for achieving true knowledge. Aristotle emphasized the practical aspect of education, arguing that learning should be aimed at developing the skills necessary for participation in political life. Epicurus and the Stoics, in turn, examined the impact of education on a person's emotional state and happiness. These debates about the role of education in human life and society remain relevant today, emphasizing the importance of philosophical understanding of educational practices.

Ancient antiquity covers a broad period, and views on education during this time varied. For example, the Sophists proposed paid education, while Socrates believed that knowledge should be imparted free of charge. He criticized the paid education of the Sophists, calling it a "quasi-education" and arguing that it was not genuine. In response, the Sophists viewed Socrates as a marginal figure, unqualified to teach. They believed that they provided a true education, in contrast to Socrates' methods. Their mutual accusations highlight the diversity of approaches to education in ancient philosophy and the importance of questions about the value of knowledge and the role of the teacher. The question of who can be considered a mentor and claim to be capable of teaching others has always generated active debate. Similarly, the discussion of the content of education, including the choice of authors for study, their presentation, and the scope of materials, remains relevant. It is important to consider that mentoring requires not only knowledge but also the ability to transmit it, as well as the ability to inspire and motivate students. The right approach to choosing educational content and teaching methods can significantly enhance the learning process and foster deep understanding in students.

There is debate about the relevance of studying works such as the Iliad in the modern educational process. Some argue that priority should be given to more modern texts that reflect the current issues and interests of young people. However, proponents of classical literature insist that works that have survived the ages continue to have value and offer profound ideas that can enrich understanding of modern times. Thus, the need to study the classics remains a relevant topic of discussion in educational circles.

Plato and Cicero criticized Homer, who was already perceived as a classic in their time. Plato believed that reading Homer before a certain age was undesirable due to his violent scenes. Cicero, however, viewed poetry as entertainment and believed that teaching through Homer's works was impossible.

Despite criticism, Homer's texts retain a significant position in the ancient cultural, intellectual, and educational tradition. The Iliad and Odyssey have remained required works in the curricula of universities around the world for many centuries. These epic poems are recognized as "Great Books" and "Source Books," underscoring their importance for the study of literature, history, and philosophy. Homeric texts continue to inspire generations of students and researchers, remaining relevant in the modern educational context.

Were there universities in ancient times?

Ancient educational concepts that had a significant influence on the development of education include ideas from ancient Greek and Roman philosophers. One of the key concepts is the sophistic tradition, which emphasizes rhetoric and the art of persuasion. On the other hand, Plato's philosophy emphasizes the importance of theoretical knowledge and the development of reason. Plato proposed a model of an ideal state, in which education serves as the basis for the formation of a just society.

Aristotle, a student of Plato, expanded educational ideas by introducing the systematization of knowledge and emphasizing the importance of empirical experience. His concept of "practical philosophy" emphasizes ethics and politics, making learning more practical.

The ancient Roman educational system also contributed, emphasizing rhetoric, grammar, and dialectic, which became the basis for the liberal arts. These ancient concepts continue to influence modern educational systems, inspiring new approaches to teaching and the development of critical thinking. Thus, ancient educational ideas remain relevant and important in the context of modern education.

The concept of Xenophon of Athens represents an important teaching that concerns various types of adult occupations. Xenophon, a student of Socrates and also a renowned warrior and commander, analyzed how education could contribute to success in various areas of life. In his works, he examined in detail what a homeowner should learn to effectively manage his business so that it prospers and brings in profit. This aspect of his teaching can be seen as the foundation of entrepreneurial education. In addition, Xenophon paid attention to the training of professional warriors and statesmen, emphasizing the importance of appropriate knowledge and skills for success in these roles. His ideas remain relevant in the modern context, emphasizing the importance of targeted education and training in various fields of activity.

Vocational education is an important topic considered by many thinkers throughout history. Xenophon, a famous ancient Greek philosopher and historian, paid attention to issues of education and upbringing. However, he was not alone in addressing this topic. Other prominent figures, such as Plato and Aristotle, also discussed the importance of professional training for social and individual development. Plato, in his dialogues, emphasized the need to train specialists, while Aristotle emphasized the importance of practical training. These ideas remain relevant in the modern context, emphasizing the importance of quality professional education for a successful career and the overall progress of society.

Throughout ancient history, many authors devoted attention to the training of orators. Cicero, in his letters and works, deeply considered how future orators should be trained, where they should study, how much time should be devoted to training, and who can assist in preparing a speech. In the context of teaching oratory, Quintilian and his work "The Education of an Orator" should also be noted, as it was a significant contribution to the development of oratory.

Can the origins of university education be traced to the student communities that formed around famous ancient philosophers?

Of course, the classical conception holds that universities arose in the Middle Ages. However, with some caveats, we can consider Plato's Academy as a precursor to the modern institution of higher education. It was a separate institution with its own faculty and library. The Academy offered instruction in specific areas, in particular, the training of future statesmen. Similar prototypes of higher education can be found in the School of Pythagoras and the Garden of Epicurus, despite the latter's ironic reception. These early educational institutions laid the foundations for a concept of higher education that continues to evolve today.

Can the origins of modern soft skills training be found in Antiquity?

During the time of Socrates, the first soft skills teachers appeared – the sophists, who promised to teach skills that would contribute to career success in three years. During the time of Cicero, training in oratory became especially relevant. People invested in developing their speech and public speaking skills, mastering methods for making an impression, controlling anxiety, and effectively conveying their thoughts to an audience. These practices remain important in the modern world, where the ability to communicate and persuade plays a key role in professional success.

Education Debates on the Theater Stage

There are various sources of information about ancient education, in addition to the writings and letters of famous philosophers and politicians. One such source is the historical chronicles and writings of ancient historians, which describe the educational practices and cultural traditions of their time. Archaeological finds, such as textbooks, inscriptions, and monuments, also provide valuable information about the educational system in the ancient world. Additionally, the works of commentators and later authors who analyze and interpret ancient texts can provide insight into how education was perceived and developed. Finally, the study of literary works, such as drama and poetry, can help us understand how the theme of education was reflected in the culture and society of antiquity.

The ancient theater and its playwrights are an underappreciated source for understanding education. Aeschylus, Euripides, and Sophocles not only created outstanding works of art but also significantly transformed the educational environment of their time. Their work fostered critical thinking and moral values, which in turn influenced the formation of society. These ancient Greek playwrights were not only masters of words but also important figures who changed ideas about the role of education in human life.

Euripides' tragedy "Medea" continues the philosophical debate initiated by Socrates about the possibility of training the sophists. The dialogues between Medea and Creon show how she employs sophist tactics, seeking to confuse her opponent and presenting false arguments. Jason openly admits that he is a student of the sophists, but other characters soon expose his faulty knowledge. This work raises questions about the nature of knowledge, manipulation, and truth, making Medea relevant in a modern context.

Euripides raises current educational issues in his play, demonstrating the results of sophistic pedagogy. He calls on the audience to evaluate the impact of this educational system on men and women. This work provokes reflection on the value and consequences of sophistic methods in education.

Aristophanes, a renowned comedy playwright, criticized Socrates in his comedy The Clouds, portraying the philosopher and his students in a negative light. This work reflected the intense debates of the time, which found expression on the stage. Some scholars argue that Aristophanes' influence on public opinion may have played a role in determining the fate of Socrates, particularly his condemnation and subsequent death.

Education has indeed been viewed as a key element of social relations throughout history. Debates about its role and importance can be observed in both philosophical discussions and works of art. These debates highlight the importance of education in shaping a society's worldview and cultural values. Thus, education not only influences individual development but also serves as the basis for social change and progress.

This is indeed obvious.

What We Know and Don't Know About Schools

So far, we have discussed adult education. You have noted that information about childhood education in antiquity is limited. What is the reason for this lack of knowledge?

There is a significant problem with the available sources of information about school. Many famous philosophers of education, such as Xenophon, Cicero, and Seneca, focused on the adult personality and showed little interest in the learning process of children. Their works practically lack detailed descriptions of the school system, curricula, and teachers. They also do not provide sufficient reflections on how the ideal school should be organized. This creates a gap in our understanding of the educational approaches and methods necessary to foster high-quality learning for children.

Information about the daily lives of ancient schoolchildren comes primarily from archaeological finds rather than written sources. However, the number of such artifacts is limited and dates back to different historical periods, making it difficult to form a complete and accurate picture of the lives of students in antiquity. Studying these artifacts allows us to deepen our understanding of the educational process and the social conditions in which young ancient citizens grew up and studied.

It is known that Euripides' texts were used for copybooks. These texts required careful rewriting, restoring missing letters and words, as well as memorization and recitation. Practicing Euripides' works not only developed writing skills but also contributed to a deep understanding of his dramaturgy and poetics. Copying classic texts became an important element of the educational process, allowing students to deepen their knowledge of language and literature.

In ancient times, slaves accompanied children to school, allowing parents to monitor their children's academic progress. This not only ensured safety but also allowed parents to be informed of the successes and challenges their children faced during their studies. The educational system of that time had its own peculiarities, but the importance of parental involvement in education remained unchanged.

We do not have precise information about the methods of ancient teachers, their personalities, or many organizational aspects of schooling, although these questions are of interest. For example, it is known that children used sticks to write on wax tablets. However, it is unclear who exactly sharpened these sticks: slaves, the students themselves, or the teacher. This raises the question of how much time children might have spent on this task if they were doing it independently.

At a recent academic conference, a debate arose about the permissibility of tasks that a teacher could assign students to complete at night. The question is how important it is to consider the conditions under which children complete homework, particularly the availability of adequate lighting. We cannot provide a definitive answer, but it is worth considering how such factors may influence the quality of assignment completion and the overall perception of the educational process.

We have a limited number of sources, such as letters from students to their parents and letters from parents to teachers found during archaeological excavations in Egypt dating from the 3rd century BCE to the 3rd century CE. If these letters had been preserved in their entirety, many questions about education and interactions between students and parents would be answered. However, due to the insufficient number of surviving documents, we cannot draw any broad, well-founded conclusions. This underscores the importance of further research and discoveries that can shed light on educational practices and social relations in ancient Egypt.

What We Know About the Status of Teachers

Among the few surviving artifacts related to education, I was particularly impressed and amused by some finds. For example, ancient textbooks with amusing illustrations and unusual teaching methods that seem strange compared to modern standards. Also, interesting facts about how exams were conducted in the past bring a smile: the use of unusual objects to assess knowledge or original ways of testing students' skills. These artifacts not only reflect historical aspects of the educational system but also highlight how much approaches to learning have changed over time.

I recall a private letter dated to the 2nd century AD, in which a parent asks a loved one: "Send my daughter's teacher everything I did not finish eating during my visit, so that he may study hard with her." This moment highlights the importance of attitudes towards teachers in the past. However, it is impossible to draw conclusions about perceptions of teachers based on this single letter alone.

I am fascinated by finding compelling pedagogical stories in ancient vase painting. I am particularly interested in the different ways they are interpreted. This opens new horizons for understanding not only art but also the educational approaches used in ancient times. Studying these stories allows for a deeper understanding of cultural and historical contexts, as well as their influence on modern education.

Vase paintings often depict the well-known story of Hercules, who accidentally killed his teacher by retaliating against his blow without calculating his strength. This episode should not be taken as a reflection of the level of aggression in the ancient Greek educational system. It is as plausible as scenes from the TV series "School" by Valeria Gai Germanika. Comparing these two cultural phenomena emphasizes that aggression and conflict have always been part of the educational process, regardless of time and place.

Here, we observe an inversion of meanings: the actions of Hercules, possessing semi-divine origins, are unacceptable for an ordinary person.

It was unlikely for an ordinary student to raise a hand against a teacher.

It is highly likely that violence in educational institutions was extremely rare. The vase painting clearly demonstrates the high status of the teacher, expressed in the solid and high chairs, symbolizing the hierarchical relationship between teacher and student. Teachers, as a rule, sought to keep parents happy and continue to pay for tuition, so the use of physical force was hardly appropriate. Parents were able to come and check on how classes were proceeding. Thus, school violence is more likely related to the Middle Ages, when pedagogical approaches and relationships between participants in the educational process were different.