Classics
Why Study Classics?
The past is a foreign country; they do things differently there. L.P. Hartley Students approaching Classical Studies for the first time may wonder how the study of languages and cultures from antiquity is relevant in the digital era; why study Classics? First, Classics provides students with many fascinating intellectual opportunities. Because the range of Greek and Latin literature is so diverse, students interested in history, drama, poetry, political science, or philosophy, will find ample material to stimulate their curiosity. Moreover, students will develop the ability to read some of the most influential works of western literature in their original languages, and learn about cultures that are radically different from our own, yet at the same time provide the foundation of many modern ideas and institutions. Since Classical Studies have traditionally played a central role in education they have left an indelible mark on the intellectual, political, and artistic development of Western Civilization. Countless authors, as diverse in time and place as Dante and Derek Walcott, have looked for inspiration to the classical tradition; political theorists and statesmen, including Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton, developed their political ideals through a close reading of ancient historians such as Polybius and Thucydides. Understanding the reception of classical texts and the ways subsequent generations adapted and modified classical ideals will grant students a greater degree of proficiency in civic and cultural history, and help them better understand the cultural politics of their own world. While not all Classics students wish to become classical scholars, a major in Classics is among the most impressive degrees to have when applying for a job in other fields. The work ethic required for success in the languages, the intellectually challenging nature of the grammar and syntax of Greek and Latin, and the interdisciplinary nature of the field are only a few reasons why Classics majors are highly respected and sought-after job candidates. Furthermore, because of the historical role of Classics in education many terms and concepts in various fields are derived from Greek or Latin. For these reasons, Classics majors often find employment in Law, Medical Sciences, Government/Politics, Writing and Journalism, and Education. Why study Classics? To find a challenging and immensely rewarding field of study, and to explore the familiar yet foreign country that is our past. FIA 321 Greek Art and Architecture FIA 331 Early Christian and Byzantine Architecture FIA 421 Origins of Western Art FIA 423 Roman Art and Architecture FIA 426 Italian Medieval Art History HST 310 Early Medieval Europe HST 311 Medieval Civilization HST 317 Medieval Italy, 300-1350 HST 319 The Byzantine Empire HST 352 History of Ancient Greece HST 353 History of Ancient Rome HST 354 Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire HST 381 The Historical Foundations of Modern Law Literature LIT 490 Directed Reading in Greek and Roman Literature Philosophy PHI 307 Ancient Philosophy PHI 391 History of Ethics PHI 510 Topics in Ancient Philosophy
The Classical Civilization Major
Students in this major study the civilizations of the ancient Mediterranean and their influence on subsequent civilizations. Students may focus on one or two elements, such as art, history, literature, philosophy, religion, or politics. Courses are given in English and require no knowledge of Greek or Latin. However, students are encouraged to satisfy the Language Skills requirement by taking one of these languages. In addition, students are encouraged to take any of LIT 101, LIT 102, LIT 203 and LIT 211 during their first and sophomore years.
Major Requirements
The major in Classical Civilization requires 27 credits and chosen from the following upper-division courses. No more than 9 credits may be selected from any one department. Other related courses may be substituted by petition to the faculty.
English
ETS 325 History and Varieties of English Fine Arts
