By Bailee Barfield Cavalier Daily Associate Editor With finals quickly approaching, students attempt to stuff back into their heads major works of literature and historical figures assigned in textbooks and mentioned in lectures. But while this week celebrates the achievements of several big names, it also celebrates the need to take a break and let loose.
William Shakespeare needs no introduction; his plays and sonnets have been integral parts of every academic repertoire. Though his birthday is commonly celebrated April 23, historians constantly argue about his true date of birth because the actual records have been lost over time.
Shakespeare's work has not only made its mark on the literary world but on the world of cinema as well. Without having to read a book, curious individuals can get their dose of Shakespeare through literal film adaptations or popular teen movies with plots loosely based on Shakespeare's plays.
"Teen movies like '10 Things I Hate About You' show how Shakespeare's storylines can hold up in any society," fourth-year College student Basia Jones said.
Shakespeare is not the only prominent Briton who has had reason to celebrate this week. Looking at more recent history students are likely to come across the achievements of Winston Churchill, British prime minister and renowned statesman during World War II.
Queen Elizabeth II knighted Churchill this week in 1953 for his invaluable lifetime of military service, political leadership and literary accomplishment, thus requiring everyone from then on to begin his name with "Sir."
It doesn't take knighthood to signify importance, however. Former President Truman will go down in history as the president who put a bowling alley in the White House. No longer would chief executives lead the country without being able to take bowling breaks during their stressful days. The White House opened the two-lane bowling alley in the West Wing April 25, 1947.
"If the president wants to bowl, let him bowl, I say," third-year Roby Thomas said.
According to History.com, the White House staff formed a bowling league at the request of the president. Participants included individuals holding positions in the Secret Service, the household staff and various administrative departments. These teams not only competed against each other but against other teams across the nation. These competitors never ceased to surprise their adversaries who couldn't believe their workplace happened to be the White House.
Some students have suggested that the University follow suit.
"We're chemical engineers and this is the first time we've gotten to be outside and enjoy the nice weather," third-year Engineering student Kevin Hershey said. "However, I'm sure that other students and faculty would appreciate having a bowling alley here at school."
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