From Latin to Hollywood: Classicist & Actor Elizabeth Bond Murphy Makes the Case for Classics
From The Case for Classics · 38:18
Show by Maira Zaidi
In the inaugural episode of The Case for Classics, I sit down with Elizabeth Bond Murphy, actress, Latin teacher, academic coach, and founder of Pretty Smartly, to explore how ancient languages can open unexpected doors.Elizabeth traces her journey from a high school Latin classroom to double concentrating in Latin and Biology at Brown University. She reflects on professors who deepened her love of Virgil, encouraged her research, and helped her discover connections between classical literature, animal behavior, and the questions that make us human.Our conversation explores how translation builds confidence, teaches students to embrace challenges, and creates habits that extend beyond the classroom. Elizabeth also shares the surprising relationship between Latin and acting: both invite us to understand context, inhabit another person’s perspective, and bring stories to life.We discuss the emotional power of Catullus’s poetry, the possibilities of linguistics, and Elizabeth’s commitment to giving more students their first encounter with Latin. Having worked with her while preparing for AP Latin, I share my appreciation for teaching that combines challenge with encouragement.Ultimately, Elizabeth makes the case that Classics offers countless paths for curiosity, reminding us that our questions, struggles, and feelings connect us across thousands of years.
More episodes of The Case for Classics
More episodes
- Ancient Drama, Human Stories: Harvard Professor Naomi Weiss Makes the Case for Classics
- Ancient Machines, Modern Questions: Cornell Professor Courtney Roby Makes the Case for Classics
- For the Love of Classics: Ekklesia’s Co-Founders Make the Case for Classics
- AI & Ancient Languages: Paideia Institute Founder Dr. Jason Pedicone Makes the Case for Classics
- Ancient Languages, Living Voices: Founder of Polymathy, Luke Ranieri Makes the Case for Classics
- The Joy of Learning: Chair of Classics, Columbia University Prof. Katharina Volk Makes the Case for Classics
- Giving Classics New Life: Aôthen Magazine Founder Samantha Ng Makes the Case for Classics
- Latin to Medicine: Neuroradiologist Dr. Christopher Mattern Makes the Case for Classics
- Roman Mysteries, Timeless Stories: BBC-Adapted Author Caroline Lawrence Makes the Case for Classics
- Invitation to the Case for Classics
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