Grammar Gazette - Issue 2, 2023

FROM THE STUDENTS Kleio Society

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The fear and vilification of powerful women, epitomised by Medusa, entrenched a culture of male dominance, severely limiting opportunities for women in education, politics, and public life. This myth, while narratively intriguing, mirrors regressive gender norms that significantly curtailed the lives and prospects of women in ancient Greek society. Kleio actively engages students in hands-on interactions with actual artefacts. This unique and inspiring experience not only sparks curiosity but also fosters dynamic discussions among students. Handling these tangible links to the past promotes sensory engagement, cultivates questioning and problem-solving skills, and enhances historical understanding. Moreover, it humanises the stories of our past, creating empathy for people whose lives are so distantly removed from ours. Artefact sessions motivate students by introducing them to new topics and sustaining interest throughout the research and learning journey. These sessions deepen understanding, facilitating in-depth studies and acting as a bridge between subjects of interest and our studies. Our engagement with artefacts enriches the learning experiences of students, making history tangible and relevant. By actively participating in Kleio, students not only contribute to the growth of our artefact collection but also acquire skills and perspectives that extend beyond the classroom, preparing them for a more holistic and nuanced understanding of history and society.

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An insight into the ancient world KLEIO SOCIETY SHOWC A SES HISTORIC A L A RTEFACTS Georgia Buddee (12O) and Dunya Yelesich (12W)

The Kleio Society is named after the Greek muse of History (whose name is related to the Greek word for

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glory or renown). The name of our club is tied to its mission: to cultivate a passion for museology and the ancient past, providing hands-on experience in curation to all in the Girls Grammar community. Our fundraising contributes to the expansion of our School’s artefact collection. This year, our popular ‘Dare a Humanities Teacher Day’ fundraiser dared the teachers of the Humanities faculty to dress as historical figures for an entire school day, successfully raising $902.90. The funds were allocated toward acquiring a genuine historical artefact—a bronze figurine depicting Perseus carrying the severed head of Medusa, dated to the Roman period, c. 1-3rd century CE. This artefact holds particular significance as it aligns with our commitment to shedding light on the role and daily life of women in the ancient world. Rooted in the Greek myth of Perseus and Medusa, it serves as a focal point in an upcoming exhibition located outside the Humanities staffroom. The Perseus and Medusa myth unveils a disheartening portrayal of women in ancient Greece. Medusa’s transformation from beautiful woman to menacing threat reinforces prevalent negative perceptions of female power. This mindset contributed to the subjugation of women, confining them to domestic roles and eclipsing their potential contributions.

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CAPTIONS 1 GEORGIA BUDDEE (12O) AND DUNYA YELESICH (12W) 2 DUNYA AND GEORGIA 3 THE BRONZE FIGURINE OF PERSEUS CARRYING THE SEVERED HEAD OF MEDUSA, DATED TO THE ROMAN PERIOD 4 HUMANITIES TEACHERS DRESSED AS THEIR FAVOURITE PERSON FROM HISTORY

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GAZETTE • ISSUE 2, 2023 ISSUE 2, 2023

BRISBANE GIRLS GRAMMAR SCHOOL