By Bailee Barfield Cavalier Daily Associate Editor Students antsy to escape endless piles of schoolwork may find it ironic that this week filled with overwhelming anxiety is one that once welcomed crucial scientific and social advancements as well as the birth of an old childhood literary friend.
Students throughout history have sought social outlets for fun and frolic. As true today as it was 180 years ago, the first student-led Mardi Gras celebration in the streets of New Orleans only proved society's youth always have had an overwhelming desire to party. Students in New Orleans, complete with colorful masks and comical costumes, embellished the age-old tradition by dancing to celebrate Fat Tuesday. Though this celebration was nowhere near the monumental event it is today, each subsequent year brought more and more festivities. Extravagant floats, aggressively rowdy crowds and the immodest ritual of handing out beads were all eventually encompassed.
Though American students have played a key role in the development of Mardi Gras traditions, the ritual itself has existed for many years before reaching the United States.
"It's a continuation of a long tradition of Carnival in Europe," French Dept. Chair Mary McKinley said. "The celebration goes back to pagan and Celtic traditions of the Gauls, before the time of Christ. Scenes of Carnival show up in 16th century French renaissance literature, in the pieces of Rabelais and other French writers."
On a more serious note, the discovery of DNA's double helix structure by James D. Watson and Frances H.C. Crick this week in 1953 not only showed how life replicates itself, but forever changed the face of scientific research and development from that point forward. Though it was discovered in 1869, no one could quite figure out what DNA actually looked like. After a futile attempt by chemist Linus Pauling, Watson and Crick succeeded in establishing its essential "double-helix polymer" status that is beat into the head of every introductory biology student to this day.
For those wishing to revert back to simpler times, before the rush of heavy partying and complicated scientific concepts, rejoice in the birthday of everyone's favorite childhood author: Dr. Seuss. Born in Springfield, Mass. as Theodore Geisel 103 years ago, Seuss wrote books that have become staples in the repertoire of any self-respecting child. Famous titles ranging from "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" to "Go Dog Go" and "Green Eggs and Ham" continue to captivate young audiences with their lovable rhymes and imaginative illustrations.
"My favorite book was 'Cat in the Hat,' which I think is kind of typical for kids," second-year College student Carrie Knopf said. "It was one of my favorites for bedtime reading."
Read More
University gym culture uplifts student fitness
By Mia Tan | 53 minutes agoFor these students, the most Herculean gym pursuits are less about achieving the build of a Greek god and more about building long-lasting, healthy relationships with the gym.
The triumphant return of Littlejohn’s
By Blaine Hutchens and Kate Johnson | 2 days agoThe revived Littlejohn’s presents a tasty and conveniently located, albeit pricey, food option for those looking for a taste of old and new.
Top 10 things to know before attending the Foxfield Races
By Malone Morchower | 2 days agoEvery year, students arrive in droves to watch the horses, bask in the sun and hang out with friends before finals and summer vacation.
