has anything changed for students??

Question

This is the translation of an authentic letter from a student at 'oxenford' 'Greetings pater..this is to inform you that i am studying (at Oxford) with greatest dilligence, but the matter of money stands greatly in the way of my promotion as it is now two months since I spent the last of what you sent me. This city is expensive and makes many demands; I have to rent lodgings, buy necessaries, and provide for many other things which cannot be specified. Wherefore I respectfully beg your paternity that by the promptings of divine pity you assist me, so that i may complete what I have well begun. For you know that without Ceres and Bacchus, Appollo grows cold..'
Nos vagabunduli, Laeti, jucunduli,
Edimus libere, Canimus lepide,
Risu dissolvimur, Pannis obvolvimur,
Multum in joculis,Crebro in poculis

Should have said -letter was dated mid twelfth century and the poem below is from carmina burana - a collection of bawdy student songs of the time..but you knew that..didn't you??

Answer 1

Yep - there more of them!!

But seriouly, back then they studied a much narrower choice of subjects, which were mainly ecclesiastical!

And lack of money was certainly a big problem, as many had to steal, beg or such to survive. In fact, one group of (mainly Irish) students held Oxford and the surrounding countryside to ransom, demanding protection money and such!

Also, many were killed/injured in fights and such, often with townspeople who disliked them (similar as today!) They seemed to have a good time and were often heavy drinkers (same) and done what kids do when they first gain independance (same).

So overall, it was similar

Answer 2

It will never change!No money, no food, no heating, living in a 8`x8` `cell` Can`t afford to go out, fed up with staying in.At least we had a grant against tuition fees, so our parents weren`t financially crippled. To-days ` students have very pressing financial problems and the competition for places is greater. It should not be this way, they should be able to study, without all the financial stress.

Answer 3

I think that, even worse than money troubles, is when you work really hard to get the grades you need, while another student doesn't even lift a book and somehow still does better.

Answer 4

Today students face even more hardships, there has been a constant increase in tuition and the prices for textbooks are ridiculous.