Salvete Omnes!
While many school events focus on the modern world, the Junior Classical League (JCL) and Latin Honor Society (LHS) took a step back in time with their annual Mythopaloosa event. Held on campus, this hands-on program gave students from across the archdiocese a chance to step into the world of ancient myths and legends as they prepare for the Pegasus Mythology Exam.
These two organizations are known for their enthusiasm and commitment to classical studies. Student members, dressed in Olympian god costumes, took groups of eager middle schoolers through a day filled with mythology. The theme of this year’s event was “Ancient Beginnings.”
Students first engaged in rap battles, producing verses about their assigned Olympian mentor. These performances were judged at the end of the day to determine the best rap. The kids then played Certamen, a quiz-bowl-style competition with an energetic twist, that challenged students on their knowledge of classical history, language, and culture.
The kids were then brought to the “Orpheum” where they would make a play based on mythological events. From there, the kids visited the “Museum,” which allowed participants to explore classical mythology in art and history before finally sculpting a mythological artwork out of clay.
Finally, kids were sent to “Pandora’s Box,” an escape room that challenged students to confront and overcome the evils released into the world: Greed, Envy, War, Death, Disease, Betrayal, and Famine. By engaging in fun and interactive activities that involved teamwork, problem solving, and compassion, participants learned the importance of cooperation, fairness, and hope in restoring balance and creating a better world.
The high school mentors guided these kids through each room.
Teacher Tom Marier, an organizer of the event, praised the students’ dedication. “Never in the history of this service project have students shown such independence and creativity as well as a high degree of organization and zeal,” Marier said.
Student Cole Saunders, a mentor during the event, shared his excitement about the success of Mythopaloosa. “Mythopaloosa was a roaring success, from dawn to dusk. The halls of Ivy Street were filled with the excited cheers and boasts of middle schoolers, guided by our high school volunteers who were posing as Olympian gods. Whether through creating raps, sculpting clay, learning about ancient artwork, writing plays, or participating in Certamen, there was so much fun to be had that day. A great deal was learned as well,” Saunders said.
The success of Mythopaloosa was made possible by the dedication of many volunteers. Such dedication demonstrated that Latin is not a “dead” language but instead a vibrant community enhanced by the virtues of Marist.
Special thanks goes out to the JCL officers who spent countless hours planning the activities and to the god mentors who led their groups with enthusiasm. The day was also made possible by Marier’s invaluable guidance. Librarians Angela Williams and Brian Collier also supported the event through their coordination efforts and by taking pictures throughout the day.
Students from six different schools, ranging from grades 3-8, participated in this year’s event, making it one of the most successful Mythopaloosas yet.
With a mix of education and entertainment, participants left the event with newfound knowledge and appreciation for the ancient world. As Mythopaloosa continues to grow, Marist’s Latin community remains dedicated to keeping mythology alive.
Vale et bonam fortunam!