I’m 30 and left high school early due to severe ADHD that wasn’t diagnosed until later. I feel like I missed out on a lot of basic education, and I don’t even know what I don’t know. Lately, I’ve been seeing lots of talk about ‘The Odyssey’ on Twitter, and I realized I know very little about it or other common knowledge topics. It’s overwhelming to try and catch up when you’re not sure where to start. I’d love to know what you think are essential things everyone should know or learn about.
Everyone has gaps in their knowledge; that’s totally normal. What matters more is your willingness to learn and how you handle finding out about what you don’t know. Being curious and open to learning is key. For instance, many people talk about Shakespeare and his impact on literature. He’s worth exploring if you’re interested in how stories are crafted. Don’t worry too much about what you don’t know—just start exploring what interests you.
@zodiac
Sometimes people react defensively because they’re embarrassed by their gaps. Remember, you don’t have to share everything you learn or don’t know on social media.
Jason said:
@zodiac
If Shakespeare’s works use basic story tropes, what makes them special?
Shakespeare is renowned not just for using but for pioneering many of those tropes. His influence on literature and storytelling is immense.
@PoshDontleton
Was just making a point about the irony in saying his works are based on ‘basic’ tropes when he’s one of their originators!
For a fresh take on ‘The Odyssey,’ try reading Emily Wilson’s translation. It’s very well-regarded and accessible.
SophiaMartinez said:
For a fresh take on ‘The Odyssey,’ try reading Emily Wilson’s translation. It’s very well-regarded and accessible.
If you find reading challenging, consider simpler versions like those by Mary Osborne, or delve into Greek mythology more broadly with Edith Hamilton’s ‘Mythology,’ which covers many myths along with ‘The Iliad’ and ‘The Odyssey.’
@Beatrix2
Emily Wilson’s translation is actually ideal for those who find older translations challenging. It simplifies many phrases without losing the essence, making it very approachable.
There are plenty of resources online that offer free educational content. Websites like Hippocampus and BBC Bitesize provide a good starting point for self-education.
Important things to know might include works by Shakespeare like ‘Romeo and Juliet’ and ‘Hamlet.’ You should also understand basic scientific concepts like the role of mitochondria in cells. Learning about historical periods like the Enlightenment and the Renaissance can also be very enriching.
Charlotte said:
@marvinjohn
Are you serious with this list?
Absolutely. Each item provides foundational knowledge that helps in understanding many aspects of modern culture and science.
Charlotte said:
@marvinjohn
You’re right, my apologies for doubting.
It’s always good to learn these things, no matter when you start.
As a teacher, I’d recommend classics like ‘Of Mice and Men’ and ‘The Catcher in the Rye.’ For history, look into the scientific method and major events like the Great Depression. There are plenty of summary videos online that can give you quick overviews.
After reading ‘The Odyssey,’ watching the movie ‘O Brother, Where Art Thou?’ can be a fun way to see how classic tales are reimagined in modern settings.
If you enjoy ‘The Odyssey,’ consider exploring other works like Ovid’s ‘Metamorphoses’ or plays by Sophocles for more on Greek stories and themes.
You’re clearly articulate, so you’ve learned more than you might think. If you’re interested in ‘The Odyssey,’ why not read it and see what you discover?
There are great audiobook versions of many classics that might be easier to get into. Your local library might have these available for free through apps like Libby.