Of all the subject teachers in schools around the world, it seems reasonable to suggest that those teaching history are a superior breed. Such a magnificent subject naturally attracts a higher class of student, some of whom then go on to spread the joy to future generation through the medium of education. But obviously, I, as a history student, am arguing from a biased position; it is necessary to consider the issue from a more impartial standpoint.
The presentation of history teachers in films seems an appropriate source. And, lo and behold, there seems to be considerable support for my hypothesis. In The History Boys, for example, Irwin very much endears himself to his students and the audience by the film’s conclusion. His fierce intelligence combined with his insecurity and dishonesty render him a highly complex and interesting character. While Mrs Lintott’s focus on ‘facts, facts, facts’ seems somewhat outmoded, her dry wit and partly successful attempts to instil her students with a need to correct the innate gender bias in history gains her the audience’s affections. Although it could be argued that Hector leaves the most significant impression, surely the inclusion of history within his general studies lessons makes him an honorary member of the distinguished profession of history teaching.
In the less well-known Half Nelson, Ryan Gosling’s Dan Dunne proves that even crack addiction can’t curb his flair for teaching history, initially anyway. It does cause a number of problems for his mental health and close relationships, but his love for dialectics certainly forms part of the motivation to try and get clean eventually.
In stark contrast, the economics teacher in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off epitomises the comparative monotony of his subject. Thus, clearly all the evidence points to the conclusion that history teachers are indeed an especially inspiring bunch.