Quote: "...since the 'present' is not one thing, the difference between past and present need not be seen as necessarily greater than the difference which exists today within a single 'culture'; thus 'understanding' some Romans may not be more difficult that understanding some of our fellow citizens."
Comment: One thing that interested me is how meaning of texts is not only in the work/thing itself, but also in interpretation. While it may be difficult to construct an "original meaning", the individuality of meaning adds complexity to the text. The book lists many factors which influence meaning, including, "history, tradition, and cultural practices". This wide variety allowed me to realize the expansive ways that texts can be understood.
Question: How does the value of the meaning of a text understood by someone who is less knowledgable about context and other background information compare to someone who is well versed in additional knowledge?