She wondered how her brother felt about that, but that wasn't the topic of the day. Instead she grinned, "good. Most just ask why I want to know these things." She set her hand on one of her books, "you can memorize one of these and know every last little detail, but that's not what history is about."
She paused, then smiled. "I also teach a Mythology class, which is why I asked. As stated, memorizing is one thing, having a drive is another. Mythology is history no one can prove. There's a grain of salt in every tale, even if you can't provide a date or actual remnants. But oral tales get out of hand quickly." She shrugged.
"And then history is always written by the victor. We don't know the other side, not always, because time forgot it all. I don't need a T.A. that can remember inane details of what war happened when, or what King ruled when. What I need is someone who loves this job."
"So, why the interest in history? What makes you think knowing all these things is worthwhile to you?"