A lot of the words we use in English come from the Latin language. As a result, some of these words can behave differently than one might normally expect. Two words that do this are alumnus and alumna. This article explains why those words act so oddly by giving a brief overview of the Latin case system and how that system affects the words when we use them in English. | Read More →

Libraries have existed for thousands of years. The have contained tablets, scrolls, books, and digital files. These repositories of knowledge continue to be a source of fascination to people around the world. | Read More →

The Battle of Thermopylae was arguably one of the most epic battles in European history. The Greek sacrifice against insurmountable odds almost comes across as fiction. Of course, this makes the battle a prime target for modern media. Although entertaining, movies and shows often dilute or distort the facts for dramatic effect. This article reveals some of the myths and misconceptions about the Battle of Thermopylae, separating fact from fiction. | Read More →

This article provides the reader with an introduction to Greek myth. Beginning with a defense of mythology itself, it then offers a definition, contrasting myth with fiction. Next, the Greek creation myth is summarized, before turning to the gods themselves. The article then covers the great heroes: Heracles, Perseus, and Orpheus, and the myths connected to them. The article finishes by describing the various beings, like Centaurs, Satyrs, and Furies, who are neither gods nor mortals. | Read More →

In 1778, Mozart had a rough lot. He failed at finding employment. His mother died. And, his love dumped him. Thus, he crawled back to his domineering father. It was at this point, he began work on his unfinished opera Zaide, a work inspired by Voltaire's tragic play Zaire. | Read More →

There are some strange, sinister, and somewhat insane practices that are frowned upon today but were extremely commonplace in ancient times. Human lives, apparently, weren't held to the highest standard in many places around the world a few thousand years ago. This article outlines the top five darkest rituals that ever came out of history and provides a brief description of each. | Read More →