have both ancient and modern learning -- very learned; be conversant with ancient and modern learning; be conversant with things past and present -- erudite and informed; be very versed in both ancient and modern affairs; be well versed in both ancient and modern literature; be well versed in both ancient and modern learning [knowledge]; know both about ancient and modern [present] times; master ancient and [as well as] modern learning; understand the new and gain a wide knowledge of the old