Harold Cherniss

Harold Cherniss was an American Classicist. Upon his return from service in World War II, Cherniss accepted a teaching position at the University of California, Berkeley. It was here that he initially met. Robert Oppenheimer. In this interview, Cherniss reflects on his friendship with Oppenheimer and his experience with others who knew him. Among other subjects, he discusses Oppenheimer’s personality, intellectualism, friendships, and political leanings. He recalls Oppenheimer’s interest in literature, especially French poetry. Cherniss explains how and why Oppenheimer became interested in studying Sanskrit – because Oppie loved a challenge.