TO: EVOC 518 Dr. Ron Pendleton
FROM: David Wiget (Student ID# 826771915)
DATE:
RE: 518, Extra mile
The Emperor's Club
Ethical & Cultural
Insights
I found this to be an interesting movie that not only inspired me to grow as a teacher but taught me a lesson in ethics. There were many insights in the movie that I believe to be of value to my colleagues and students. Such insights as: principles, virtues, morals, inspiration, dealing with problem students, encouragement, commitment, disappointment, and preparation.
I think I also need to mention that this would have not been a movie that I would have viewed by choice. I usually see movies for the purpose of entertainment. However, now that I am a teacher that is teachable, I was able to open my mind and find it a benefit to my teaching skills and growth.
I really enjoyed how Mr. Hunbert (played by Kevin Kline) handled the difficult student by the name of Sedgewick Bell (Emile Hirsch). Sedgewick, who is arrogant and defiant, reminds me of some of the students I have had the opportunity to teach. I became inspired and encouraged to handle students with this character in a similar manner i.e. to create inspiration, encouragement and a challenge.
My favorite quote in the movie is “youth ages, immaturity is outgrown, ignorance can be educated, drunkenness sobered, but stupid lasts forever.” This quote was validated towards the end of the movie when 20 years later Sedgewick contacted Mr. Hunbert to be the leader in a reunion of the “Julius Ceaser” event. Despite the fact that Mr. Hunbert caught Sedgewick cheating the first time 20 years prior, Sedgewick cheated again. This part of the movie had the most impact on me as to what an ethical dilemma Mr. Hunbert was in. Not only did Mr. Hunbert give up another students spot on “Julius Ceaser” contest but was told to keep quiet when he discovered Sedgewick cheating and then repeating the same thing 20 years later. And it was no surprise that Sedgewick announced that he was going to run for Senator. It also made my think of how Sedgewick’s son will grow up after hearing everything put out in the open while they were in the restroom.
This would be an excellent movie for the discussion of ethics,
values, and living life on life’s terms.