"Bernard of Chartres used to say that we are like dwarfs on the shoulders of giants, so that we can see more than they, and things at a greater distance, not by virtue of any sharpness on sight on our part, or any physical distinction, but because we are carried high and raised up by their giant size."

- John of Salisbury

Contemporary public discourse has called into question the value of engaging the thought of figures from the past. Widely recognized and celebrated heroes have been subjected to a reexamination that challenges not only their character but the merits of their accomplishments. In fact, today’s skepticism about and indictment of historical exemplars invites us to question the value of history itself and challenges the very possibility of learning from those who have preceded us—either because of their own flaws or the fact that they lived in what are identified as culturally flawed times.

Essay Topic

The 2021 Bernard of Chartres Scholarship will be awarded to essayists who best address the following question: Of what merit is the study of the past? 

Essayists are encouraged to consider whether or not it is possible to distinguish the thought and the accomplishments of a particular historical figure from his own errors, confusion, or misdeeds. Is it permissible to extol the former and indict the latter or must even good works be disregarded as fruit of a poisoned tree? How might we regard an otherwise admirable figure who nonetheless espoused positions we no longer consider acceptable? How competent are we to judge cultural standards of the past? How does Christianity inform our perspective when it comes to making such judgments?

Essay Standards & Awards

• Essays should be between 500 and 1,000 words.

• Essayists are invited to draw upon the works of present and past thinkers in addition to their own reflections in response to the prompt.

• Submissions will be judged on the basis of both style and substance.

• The contest is open to all new students from incoming freshmen through seniors, and is not based on financial need. Current LGA students may submit an essay just for fun, but they are not eligible for awards.

• Essays must be submitted via the form below by June 30, 2021.

• Awards:

  • Grand Prize of full tuition & book fee scholarship for every year of LGA attendance

  • 2nd prize of annual $5,000 tuition & book fee scholarship for every year of LGA attendance

  • 3rd prize of annual $2,500 tuition & book fee scholarship for every year of LGA attendance

• Winning essays will be published on LGA’s website and in quarterly newsletter