History Debating

Was Nero the worst Roman Emperor in History? Did he really fiddle while Rome burned? And can Ancient historical sources be trusted? These were some of the questions our Year 10 History debaters tussled with as they resumed their competition last week on the topic That Nero has been unfairly villainised by ancient historians. Debating Emanuel School on Zoom, our team of Alexandra Kuo, Helena Piazza, Ruby Cooney, and Lydia Bodsworth employed detailed historical research and source evidence to argue the affirmative case, which they successfully proved. We wish them well as they move on to the Quarter Finals of this competition.

Continuing the Ancient theme, our Year 11 History debaters contested the Quarter Finals last week on Zoom against Roseville College, delving into the founding father of History, Herodotus. Arguing the affirmative case, That Herodotus is the father of lies, Lucia Gelonesi, Kiara Wijesinghe, Charlotte FitzSimons, and Scarlett Gibson-Williams examined Herodotus’ The Histories, along with a range of ancient, modern, and archaeological sources, to construct their case. In a close contest, the SCEGGS team had a narrow victory, proving that indeed, Herodotus is the father of lies. We wish them well for the Semi Finals.

Congratulations to the teams from Emanuel, Roseville, and SCEGGS, for providing two very engaging, insightful, and well researched debates.

The History Department