Meaning: The quote by historian Donald Kagan highlights the contrasting motivations for reading history throughout the human experience. Kagan suggests that, historically, people have been drawn to history because they found pleasure in it and believed it to be instructive. However, he points out that the profession of a history professor has shifted the focus of studying history in a different direction.

When Kagan mentions "the human experience," he is referring to the collective experiences and interactions of human beings throughout history. From ancient civilizations to modern societies, people have turned to history as a means of understanding the past, learning from previous events, and deriving pleasure from the exploration of human achievements and struggles. History has served as a repository of knowledge, offering insights into the complexities of human behavior, societal evolution, and the impact of significant events.

The pleasure derived from reading history can be attributed to the human inclination to seek connections with the past, to unravel the narratives of our ancestors, and to gain a sense of continuity and identity. Moreover, history provides a window into the cultural, political, and social dynamics that have shaped the world. By delving into historical accounts, individuals can experience a sense of fascination and intellectual stimulation as they uncover the stories of triumphs, conflicts, innovations, and the human spirit across different eras and civilizations.

In addition to the pleasure it brings, history has also been considered instructive. By studying historical events and the decisions made by individuals and societies, people have sought to draw lessons and insights that can inform their present actions and future endeavors. History offers valuable perspectives on the consequences of human actions, the complexities of power dynamics, and the impact of societal structures. It serves as a reservoir of wisdom, providing opportunities for reflection and critical thinking as individuals navigate their own lives and engage with the world around them.

However, Kagan suggests that the profession of a history professor has steered the study of history in a different direction. This observation alludes to the academic discipline of history, where the focus may shift from the intrinsic pleasure and instructive nature of history to more scholarly and analytical pursuits. The role of a history professor involves not only transmitting historical knowledge but also engaging in historical research, critical analysis, and scholarly interpretation of historical events and sources.

In the academic context, the study of history often entails rigorous research methodologies, critical evaluation of historical sources, and the exploration of historiographical debates. History professors are tasked with imparting a deeper understanding of historical contexts, interpretations, and the complexities of historical narratives. This can sometimes lead to a more scholarly and analytical approach to history, which may differ from the more personal and pleasure-driven motivations that individuals have historically had for reading history.

In conclusion, Donald Kagan's quote encapsulates the dual nature of why people have historically embraced the study of history – for the pleasure it brings and for its instructive value. While individuals have sought enjoyment and wisdom from historical narratives, the academic discipline of history has brought about a more scholarly and analytical approach to the subject. Despite this shift, the fundamental appeal of history as a source of pleasure and instruction remains integral to the human experience.