It is unfortunate that the classics department cannot "muster" up the cash to bring Dr. McLean on staff. He is as equally bright as he is witty, which the study of anything remotely related to Classics must have. In addition to this, McLean makes the Classics so relevant to other subject areas, that the department would only be stronger if they kept him on board.

I have taken two classes with Dr. McLean-- Latin 100 and Classics 143A, Ancient Tragedy. I not only learned about the subjects we studied in class, but also the relevance that those subjects had in other subject areas. Dr. Daniel McLean has a genuine passion for his subject, and delightfully witty in the sort of way that is productive in brining his points through to the class. This is a very important attribute of McLean's method that cannot be ignored by the department.

The fact is that many students from other departments enjoy minoring in Classics. Whether it be Political Science or Molecular Biology, Philosophy or Physics, Classics has a unique 'niche' in the history of all these subject areas. The UCLA Classics department must invest in professors like McLean if they want the Classics to take root outside Dodd Hall. Some may see the application of classical thought to other subjects as a compromise, and that the one who does this is somehow diluting the rich tradition. I understand this concern, but McLean presents a rich and thoughtful lecture on the ways of the ancients in such a way that his lectures enlighten both the graduate student of Classics, and the undergraduates whose interests are invested elsewhere.

By far the nicest, funniest professor I've had in the Classics Department. His quizzes are fair and complement the learning process. He makes Latin translation not only non-threatening but also intellectually rewarding. To any Classics programs out there: GIVE HIM TENURE, NOW!!!