Taking lessons from the way things were done in the past is like looking at how things are done abroad (pipe down, Hartley!); it's a useful indication that something can work in some circumstances but it's by no means certain that it will be a good idea here, now. Always worth looking around (and aback) for inspiration.
We learn the lessons from history. We don't try to step back to it, though we may repeat elements that are good in a modern form and context.