II Grades or Honours of Scholars — Tyro — Baccalaureus — Licentiates — Doctors
Tyro. What do these names signify?
Spud. Both these names are taken from the art of warfare. “Tyro” is an old word used with regard to the one who is beginning the practice of war. “Batalarius” is the French name of the soldier who has already once been in a fight (which they call a battle) and has engaged in a close fight and has raised his hand against the foe, and so in the literary contests at Paris, “batalarius” has begun to signify the man who has disputed publicly in any art. Teachers are chosen from them, and are called “licentiates,” because it is permitted them to teach, or, better still, they might be termed “designate,” i.e., the men marked out. At least they have taken the doctorate. Before the whole university, a hat is placed on their head as a sign that they have had their freedom conferred on them, and become emeriti. This is the supreme honour and the highest grade of dignity.
Tyro. Who is that with so great a company round him, before whom march staff-bearers with silver staffs?