Classics Competition

6 May 2008

Certamen In Concordiam Europae Regionum Omnium (CICERO) Competition ("A Competition to promote Harmony in all areas of Europe") So it was, that on the way to Malvern, we were thumbing through a book about Hercules, trying to cram as much information as possible. We had been entered for the CICERO classics competition, and were gearing up for the challenge ahead… On arrival at Malvern Saint James School, we were given a buffet lunch. This allowed us to inspect the rest of the competitors. Before the competition started, we were connected via telephone with Andorra, France and Spain. Students in these countries were also taking part live. Although the video link did not work, some Malvern Saint James School students were still able to wish the foreign competitors good luck in French and Spanish, and a man gave us all the best from France. Before starting the competition, we were shown an amusing video from Boris Johnston, explaining how thrilled he was about the CICERO competition, and for us to “Vote Latin!” The first part of the competition was a quiz on Hercules. This was tough; we tried to remember the trivia we had crammed a few hours before! The paper also included a question asking us to think up a “thirteenth labour” and write an account about it! The second part was a Latin unseen paper. This was extremely tough, probably the hardest piece of Latin I have ever had to translate! There was much scratching of heads, as the competitors tried piece the puzzle together. Despite the challenges, it was a very enjoyable day, and it was good to be able to meet other young Classicists in the UK, some that had journeyed for several hours to take part. I would like to thank the staff of Malvern Saint James School for organising the competition. Will Dewar, 12HSS

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