[https://www.debugpoint.com/2020/04/how-to-install-classic-gnome-flashback-in-ubuntu-20-04-lts/] shows how to install a version of Gnome that appears to be very similar in terms of user interface to MATE. When I follow the instructions in the URL, and select Gnome classic, as a root GUI login, unlike MATE on U 20.04.1 LTS, the menus actually work (not just appear for a short time and then close without permitting selection of an application). I understand that the internals of Gnome Classic and MATE are different with different developers and support. However, to an end user, what important functionalities does Gnome Classic NOT offer? The appearance of Gnome Classic and MATE to an end user appear to be very, very similar. Note that for my regular non-root user account, I will continue to use MATE -- it works fine.
various mate specific things ie the advanced menu or brisk menu as well as the MATE Dock, MATE tweak and such other stuff, also apps are mostly gnome apps vs MATE apps unless you install MATE apps
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