Wednesday, January 12, 2005
Introduction to Archaeology:
Half the class failed to make an appearance, which I found slightly odd. With all the absentees counted the class holds about twenty-five people. The instructor, a thin-boned, furtive type, nevertheless seems competent. She probably spends more time digging in the dirt than talking to people, but I prefer learning from someone who currently works in the field with the most recent technological methods. This past summer she worked on a site in Alaska, analyzing mostly vegetative finds for clues about ancient Native American habitats. She emphasizes American, African, and Asian cultures and says she glosses over ancient Greek, Roman, and Egyptian, which disappoints me but is understandable. She did mention another course covers my specialization; I may take it during a future semester. And, of course, I am still interested in the other cultures. Bring on the Pueblo!
Comprehensive German Review:
The instructor is a native speaker who is working on a graduate degree in history. His name is "Eike", which I have never heard before; I thought all German males were named "Gunther", "Dieter", or "Helmut". I enjoyed his moderately deep voice and accent. Guten Morgen, indeed. Another Classics major happens to be taking the class as well; his father was stationed for a time in Germany. I will sit next to him and make him be my friend.
Cultural Anthropology:
I arrived to the room late because I thought it was in the lecture hall of the biology building. Sitting in the front row across from me I noticed a friend from my floor; recognizing anyone makes me ecstatic. The instructor speaks rapidly and assured us she would release us early over the course of the semester. Das ist sehr gut, ja. The class, from her description, sounds more basic than I might like, but it will be at least broad.
Comprehensive Latin Review:
My classical mythology professor assured me this instructor is "very nice", but he also seems very dry- I equate him to William Balch. Looking around the room I observed a girl from my logic class last semester- I never spoke to her, but she seemed intelligent, if somewhat shy. From my involvement with the Tech Classical Society I also discerned another, more eccentric Classics major. Of the approximate twenty-five Classics majors, two-thirds I classify as "kinda creepy" people- they're dispurposefully odd. I consider myself an "artful" oddball. That means I am cooler than everyone.
Introduction To Fiction:
I entered apprehensive this class would bore me, but I am quite relieved, for the professor is an old, lanky nutcase. He obviously considers his lectures theatrical performances. He screamed at least twice, clutched at his head, fell to the floor, and spun around in his chair, all on the first day. Most people couldn't avoid laughing. I love writing papers, but am nevertheless grateful he only assigns two; I'll spend enough time studying, especially Latin and German.
[Lauree Frances Keith concluded this diatribe at 4:20 PM]