Were teachers, of the early modern era not longing for the present? Most colleges of that time did not offer a history course. Still, they did teach a lot about the past since the teaching consisted in the reading of the works of ancient writers. This is because ancient science and literature were considered much more advanced than the science and literature of the Middle Ages. Hence, teaching ancient languages and history was thought the best way of preparing students for life in the society of the time. (Contains 27 footnotes.)