Who was Pythagoras? Everything You Need to Know (2025)

Among the earliest and most mysterious figures in the history of Western philosophy stands the Greek philosopher Pythagoras. Most commonly known to modern students for the geometric theorem that bears his name, Pythagoras was far more than a mathematician. He was a religious reformer, a teacher of moral philosophy, and a founder of a philosophical school that profoundly influenced the development of ancient and Christian thought. For Catholic parents seeking to understand the history of classical education and its connection to our faith, the life and ideas of Pythagoras offer a fascinating study. In this article, we will explore the … Continue

Latin Reading I, Lesson 33. John 4:51-54

To complete this lesson, complete the following tasks: 1. Study the lesson below, carefully and completely.2. Read the instructions for translation exercises.3. Complete translation exercises.4. Memorize all lesson vocabulary.5. Work to earn a perfect score on your lesson exam. Lesson 51 Jam autem eo descendente, servi occurrerunt ei, et nuntiaverunt dicentes, quia filius ejus viveret. 52 Interrogabat ergo horam ab eis in qua melius habuerit. Et dixerunt ei: Quia heri hora septima reliquit eum febris. 53 Cognovit ergo pater, quia illa hora erat in qua dixit ei Jesus: Filius tuus vivit; et credidit ipse et domus ejus tota. 54 Hoc iterum … Continue

What is Compulsory Education?

Compulsory education is a type of education that is required by law. This means that every child must attend school for a certain number of years, usually from the age of five or six until they are 16 or 18. The idea behind compulsory education is to give every child an equal chance to learn and succeed in life. By requiring children to attend school, they can get the education and skills they need to be successful adults. Compulsory education was first introduced in the United States in the 19th century. At that time, many children were working long hours … Continue

What’s the Difference between the Catechism of the Catholic Church and the Catechism of the Council of Trent?

The Catechism of the Catholic Church and the Catechism of the Council of Trent are two important documents for Catholics. They provide guidance and instruction on the beliefs and practices of the Catholic faith. But what is the difference between the two catechisms? Let’s take a closer look. The Catechism of the Catholic Church is a comprehensive document that was published in 1992. It provides a clear and easy-to-understand explanation of Catholic beliefs, morals, and practices. The catechism covers a wide range of topics, from the basics of the faith found in the Apostles’ Creed, to more complex topics like … Continue

Prayer before Studying, by St. Thomas Aquinas

Text Printable Version O Ineffable Creator, who, from the treasures of Your wisdom, have established three hierarchies of angels, have arrayed them in marvelous order above the fiery heavens, and have marshaled the regions of the universe with such artful skill. You are proclaimed the true font of light and wisdom, and the primal origin raised high beyond all things. Pour forth a ray of Your brightness into the darkened places of my mind; disperse from my soul the twofold darkness into which I was born: sin and ignorance. You make eloquent the tongues of infants. Refine my speech and … Continue

Latin Grammar I, Lesson 14. Of the Genitive Case of the Third Declension (of Nouns)

In lesson 13, we learned of the third declension of Latin nouns. Unlike first and second declension nouns, third declension nouns have many different forms, which can cause confusion. In this lesson, we will learn the various ways that third declension nouns form their genitive cases, which will bring some order to these nouns. To complete the objectives of this lesson, complete the following tasks: If you need any help with this lesson, please post your questions on the course Student Forum in the Study Center. Lesson I. Neutra in E mutant ipsum E nominativi in IS, ut: omne, omnis; … Continue

Who Was Demades?

In lesson 82 of the Academy’s Aesop’s Fables course, we read of the famous Greek orator Demades. Most students are not familiar with this man, so let’s answer the question, “Who was Demades?” Demades was a famous ancient Greek speaker and politician who lived over 2,000 years ago. He was born in the city of Athens and grew up during a time of great change in Greece. Demades was known for his powerful speeches and his ability to persuade people. He was a member of the popular assembly, where he would give speeches to the people of Athens. He was … Continue

Latin Grammar I, Lesson 35. Of the Verb

In this lesson, we begin the study of Verbs, which will continue through lesson 82. Here, we will learn what a verb is and what different classes of verbs there are. To complete this lesson, complete the following tasks: Lesson I. Verbum est pars orationis, quae modos et tempora habet neque in casus declinatur. Translation: A Verb is a part of speech, which moods and tenses has and not into cases is declined. Here we have the definition of a verb, which is to be memorized. Note the three characteristics of a verb: it has moods, or different ways of … Continue

Gospel of St. John 1:26-30 (Greek)

The lesson below belongs to the Classical Liberal Arts Academy’s Greek Reading I course. In this course, we study the Gospel of St. John in the New Testament. Students wishing to master the lesson below are to complete translation exercises daily from Greek into English and English into Greek, until every Greek word and its English meaning are memorized. Text 26 ἀπεκρίθη αὐτοῖς ὁ Ἰωάννης λέγων: ἐγὼ βαπτίζω ἐν ὕδατι: μέσος ὑμῶν ἕστηκεν ὃν ὑμεῖς οὐκ οἴδατε, 27 ὁ ὀπίσω μου ἐρχόμενος, οὗ οὐκ εἰμὶ ἐγὼ ἄξιος ἵνα λύσω αὐτοῦ τὸν ἱμάντα τοῦ ὑποδήματος. 28 ταῦτα ἐν Βηθανίᾳ ἐγένετο πέραν … Continue