The Dedication of the Fagles Resource Center for Studies in the Classics

On June 8, 2011, Princeton High School commemorated the enduring impact of Dr. Robert Fagles by dedicating a new resource center in his honor. The Fagles Resource Center for Studies in the Classics stands as a testament to Dr. Fagles’ profound influence on classical studies and his unique connection to the Princeton community.​

Celebrating Dr. Robert Fagles

Dr. Robert Fagles (1933–2008) was a renowned translator, poet, and professor who served as the Arthur W. Marks ’19 Professor of Comparative Literature at Princeton University. His acclaimed translations of ancient Greek and Roman classics, including Homer’s “The Iliad” and “The Odyssey,” as well as Virgil’s “The Aeneid,” have brought these timeless works to a broader audience. Dr. Fagles’ dedication to making classical literature accessible and engaging has left an indelible mark on the field of literary translation.​

The Genesis of the Fagles Resource Center

The inception of the Fagles Resource Center was deeply rooted in Dr. Fagles’ relationship with Princeton High School. In 1997, following the publication of his translation of “The Odyssey,” the school’s English department adopted his version as the required text for all ninth-grade students. Dr. Fagles personally visited the school on multiple occasions, reading passages from his translation and engaging with students, thereby fostering a deeper appreciation for classical literature.​

Recognizing the profound impact of Dr. Fagles’ work and his contributions to the school, the Princeton Education Foundation awarded a grant to the English department to purchase enough copies of “The Odyssey” for all freshmen. This initiative ensured that every student could experience the epic tale through Dr. Fagles’ vivid and accessible translation.​

Features of the Fagles Resource Center

Located on the second floor of the Princeton High School library, the Fagles Resource Center serves as a hub for interdisciplinary studies in the classics. The center is equipped with a diverse collection of books, DVDs, student artwork, computers, and projection devices, creating an immersive environment for students to explore ancient literature and culture.

The resource center not only provides academic materials but also encourages creative expression and critical thinking. By integrating technology and art, the center offers a multifaceted approach to studying classical works, allowing students to connect with the material in innovative ways.​

Impact on the Princeton Community

The dedication of the Fagles Resource Center has had a lasting impact on the Princeton community. It symbolizes the school’s commitment to honoring educators who have made significant contributions to the academic and cultural development of its students. The center serves as a space where students can engage with classical texts, fostering a deeper understanding of the ancient world and its relevance to contemporary society.​

Moreover, the resource center stands as a model for how educational institutions can celebrate and preserve the legacies of influential scholars. By providing students with access to high-quality resources and encouraging interdisciplinary exploration, the Fagles Resource Center embodies the spirit of academic excellence and intellectual curiosity that Dr. Fagles championed throughout his career.​

Dr. Fagles’ Enduring Influence

Dr. Fagles’ translations are celebrated for their poetic elegance and fidelity to the original texts. His work has not only enriched the field of classical studies but has also inspired countless students and scholars to delve into the complexities of ancient literature. Through his translations, Dr. Fagles has made the epic tales of heroes and gods accessible to modern readers, bridging the gap between antiquity and the present day.​

The establishment of the Fagles Resource Center ensures that his legacy continues to inspire future generations. Students at Princeton High School have the unique opportunity to engage with classical texts in a setting that honors the very individual who brought these stories to life for so many.​

Conclusion

The dedication of the Fagles Resource Center for Studies in the Classics is a fitting tribute to Dr. Robert Fagles’ remarkable contributions to literature and education. By creating a space that fosters exploration, creativity, and a deep appreciation for classical works, Princeton High School honors the enduring legacy of a scholar who dedicated his life to bringing the ancient world to modern audiences.​

As students immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of classical literature within the walls of the Fagles Resource Center, they not only gain knowledge but also become part of a living tradition that celebrates the timeless relevance of the classics.​