JK Rowling
Studied French and Classics at Exeter. She proves studying classical subjects makes you a genius – she wrote the Harry Potter series (which is full of classical stuff and inspired the world to read again) and is now a millionaire.
Boris Johnson
Behind the enormous flop of blond hair and an unnatural ability to put both feet in his mouth simultaneously hides an extremely intelligent man.
JJ Winckelmann
A German scholar of the 18th century who looked at a mass of ancient stuff and classified Greek and Roman art. He pretty much invented archaeology and art history. Wow.
Lord Byron
The author of breathtaking poetry (such as ‘The Isles of Greece’) and a committed supporter of Greek independence from Ottoman rule. Full of inspiration and passion.
Professor James Diggle
My university Director of Studies: a world authority on Euripides; a man for whom learning modern Greek is a pointlessly easy feat; in charge of editing the Greek dictionary; the kindest and humblest of men.