Abrar Farhan Zaman
The university cafeteria bustled with the usual hum of conversation and clatter of dishes, but on this particular afternoon, a corner of the space had transformed into an impromptu classroom. Tables were pushed together, and a group of anxious juniors huddled around Nafiur Rahman, their faces a blend of apprehension and hope. It was the eve of the final exam for the Elizabethan and Jacobean Drama course, and Nafiur and I had taken it upon ourselves to ensure these students were prepared.
Nafiur had a natural knack for teaching, an ability to demystify the complex texts of Jonson and Marlowe by translating their themes into relatable, Bangladeshi contexts. He would weave the historical intricacies of Elizabethan court politics with the familiar threads of contemporary Bangladeshi society, making the ancient dramas resonate with the students on a personal level. As he spoke, I could see the initial fear in our juniors’ eyes slowly give way to understanding and then to a burgeoning confidence.
“Think of Volpone not just as a greedy old man, but as someone you might recognize in our own society,” Nafiur explained, his voice calm and reassuring. “Consider the corruption, the deceit, and the lengths people go to amass wealth. Don’t we see similar situations around us, maybe even in our neighborhoods?”
One student, Raisa*, raised her hand hesitantly. “So, it’s like when people manipulate others for money, like some of the politicians or even local businessmen?”
“Exactly!” Nafiur nodded enthusiastically. “Volpone’s schemes and manipulations mirror those of individuals who exploit others for their own gain. Understanding this can help you see the universality of Jonson’s themes.”
I observed as heads nodded in unison, the students’ pens scribbling down notes with renewed vigor. Nafiur’s method was effective; he wasn’t just teaching them to pass an exam, he was teaching them to see literature as a mirror to their own lives. Now they would view the whole world as a text just like our former Pro-VC Professor Shamsad Mortuza had taught us. Nafiur’s ability to break down barriers and make these texts intuitive was an indicator of his understanding of both the material and the students’ needs.
As a senior student and experienced debate trainer, I had witnessed firsthand the crippling shyness and lack of confidence that plagued many of our juniors. They were often reluctant to seek help, fearing judgment or ridicule. However, Nafiur had a way of drawing them out, encouraging them to ask questions and engage with the material actively. His mentoring was not just academic; it was about building confidence and fostering a proactive attitude.
“Think about Dr. Faustus,” Nafiur continued, turning to another student, Maruf*, who looked particularly stressed. “Faustus is someone who seeks knowledge and power but loses his way. How can we relate that to our lives here in Bangladesh?”
Maruf* thought for a moment before responding, “Maybe it’s like how some students or professionals get so focused on success that they forget their values or hurt others in the process?”
“Exactly,” Nafiur said, smiling. “Faustus’s tragic downfall can serve as a reminder to us all about the importance of staying grounded and remembering what truly matters. It’s a timeless lesson.”
The informal setting seemed to ease the juniors’ nerves, allowing them to open up and express their uncertainties.
“Don’t think of this as an exam you have to pass,” I told them, echoing Nafiur’s philosophy. “Think of it as a story you need to understand so you can apply it to your personal and professional lives. What makes these stories powerful? What lessons do they teach us?”
As we wrapped up our session that day, I saw a tangible change in our juniors. Their eyes no longer held the same anxiety. They stood a little taller, their smiles a little broader. It was a small victory, but a significant one. Teaching others, especially in a campus environment, is about more than imparting knowledge. It’s about inspiring confidence, building community, and making learning a shared, enjoyable experience. And that, as Nafiur had shown, is truly invaluable.
*Some names have been changed to protect anonymity.
