Classical Studies

From Homer to Vergil, the Parthenon to the Colosseum, Classical Studies majors and minors study the greatest works of literature and art from the ancient Greek and Roman Worlds. Courses in Classical Studies approach the Greco-Roman world from a variety of humanistic disciplines and analytical methods, including Greek and Latin language and literature, history, philosophy, and art and archaeology. Students learn to critically evaluate literature and material culture, grapple with fundamental questions of human civilization, and appreciate the relevance of the Greco-Roman tradition in the 21st century. In Greek and Latin language courses, students develop logical and creative thought, and explore some of the greatest works of western literature in the original language.

Majors and minors in Classical Studies often participate in Winter Term trips to Italy and Greece (or elsewhere in the Mediterranean) and in semester abroad programs such as the College Year in Athens or the Intercollegiate Center for Classical Studies in Rome. Students interested in Classical Archaeology are also encouraged to participate in summer fieldwork in the Mediterranean World.

Classical Studies provides a good foundation for a wide variety of careers. As they sharpen their skills in linguistic and textual analysis, logical thinking, observation, and argumentation, Classics majors equip themselves with the essential skills for a wide variety of careers, including journalism, medicine, teaching, museum curation, law, theater and the arts, and academia.

Students considering teaching Latin should take as much Latin as possible and consult with the chair of Classical Studies about teaching certification and job opportunities. Students planning to attend graduate school in classics should either double major in Greek and Latin or major in one language and minor in the other. Students planning to attend graduate school in classical archaeology should try to major in one language and minor in Classical Archaeology.

For more information about opportunities in Classical Studies, please see the department web pages.

Course Catalog

Requirements for a major

Classical Civilization

Total courses required Nine
Core courses Two courses in Latin or Greek; one course from CLST 120 , CLST 153 (formerly CLST 253), or CLST 154 (formerly CLST 254); one course from CLST 263, CLST 264, CLST 265, CLST 266 or CLST 267
Other required courses Two courses in Latin, Greek or Classical Civilization (may be approved courses in other departments)
Number 300 and 400 level courses Three (including CLST 454)
Senior requirement and capstone experience The senior requirement usually consists of completion of CLST 454, Senior Seminar, which includes a major paper or project. In exceptional cases, students may opt to complete an independent senior thesis. For both options, students are expected to give a public presentation of their work.
Additional information Up to two courses in allied areas outside the department, such as ancient history, ancient philosophy or ancient religion may count toward the Classical Civilization major.
Writing in the Major

Majors in Classical Civilization complete the writing in the major requirement by compiling a portfolio of their writing from courses they have taken in Classical Studies. The portfolio should include the following items: 1) an analysis of primary evidence; 2) critical engagement with secondary scholarship; 3) a thesis or research paper; and 4) an essay reflecting on their experience as a writer in Classical Studies. Students complete items 1-3 in their normal courses, the only additional writing for the portfolio is item 4. For complete instructions of the requirements, please see the website of the Department of Classical Studies. Students should consult with their advisor for details on the portfolio.

Greek

Total courses required Nine
Core courses Six courses in Greek

CLST 153 (formerly CLST 253) or CLST 263

Other required courses One further course in Greek, Latin or Classical Civilization (may be approved courses in other departments)
Number 300 and 400 level courses Two (in Greek) and CLST 454
Senior requirement and capstone experience The senior requirement usually consists of completion of CLST 454, Senior Seminar, which includes a major paper or project. In exceptional cases, students may opt to complete an independent senior thesis. For both options, students are expected to give a public presentation of their work.
Writing in the Major Majors in Greek complete the writing in the major requirement by compiling a portfolio of their writing from courses they have taken in Latin and Classical Studies. The portfolio should include the following items: 1) an analysis of primary evidence; 2) critical engagement with secondary scholarship; 3) a thesis or research paper; 4) a translation of a Greek text; and 5) an essay reflecting on their experience as a writer in Classical Studies. Students complete items 1-4 in their normal courses, the only additional writing for the portfolio is item 5. For complete instructions of the requirements, please see the website of the Department of Classical Studies. Students should consult with their advisor for details on the portfolio.

Latin

Total courses required Nine
Core courses
  • Six courses in Latin;
  • Either CLST 154 (formerly CLST 254) or CLST 264
  • Other required courses One additional class in Latin, Greek or Classical Civilization is required.
    Number 300 and 400 level courses Two in Latin and CLST 454
    Senior requirement and capstone experience The senior requirement usually consists of completion of CLST 454, Senior Seminar, which includes a major paper or project. In exceptional cases, students may opt to complete an independent senior thesis. For both options, students are expected to give a public presentation of their work.
    Writing in the Major Majors in Latin complete the writing in the major requirement by compiling a portfolio of their writing from courses they have taken in Latin and Classical Studies. The portfolio should include the following items: 1) an analysis of primary evidence; 2) critical engagement with secondary scholarship; 3) a thesis or research paper; 4) a translation of a Latin text; and 5) an essay reflecting on their experience as a writer in Classical Studies. Students complete items 1-4 in their normal courses, the only additional writing for the portfolio is item 5. For complete instructions of the requirements, please see the website of the Department of Classical Studies. Students should consult with their advisor for details on the portfolio.

    Requirements for a minor

    Classical Archaeology

    Total courses required Five
    Core courses At least three from: CLST 161, CLST 263, CLST 264, CLST 265, CLST 266 or CLST 267 (161 is strongly recommended)
    Other required courses One elective in classical archaeology or an elective from Art History, Geology, Geography or Anthropology, as approved by the minor advisor.
    Number 300 and 400 level courses One

    Classical Civilization

    Total courses required Five
    Core courses CLST 153 (formerly CLST 253), CLST 154 (formerly CLST 254) or CLST 120
    Other required courses Individual student program will be approved by the department.
    Number 300 and 400 level courses One

    Greek

    Total courses required Four
    Core courses (there are no core courses for the minor)
    Other required courses Any four courses in Greek.
    Number 300 and 400 level courses One

    Latin

    Total courses required Four
    Core courses (there are no core courses for the minor)
    Other required courses Any four courses in Latin.
    Number 300 and 400 level courses One

    Courses in the Classics in English

    CLST 100

    Greek and Roman Mythology

    The principal myths and legends of the ancient world, with consideration of the nature of myth, the social origin and evolution of myths, their relation to religion and philosophy and their use in literature and art.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    Arts and Humanities 1 course

    CLST 120

    The Ancient Mediterranean World

    The Mediterranean world from the beginning of civilization to the end of the Roman Empire: Ancient Near East, Classical Greece, Hellenistic Age, Roman Republic, Roman Empire and the Emergence of Christianity. May count towards European Studies minor.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    Arts and Humanities 1 course

    CLST 153

    Ancient Greek World

    This course provides a broad survey of Greek history, society, and literature from the mythological origins until the Age of Alexander the Great. Students read widely from Greek primary sources such as Homer, Plato, Herodotus, and Thucydides. Not open to students with credit in CLST 253.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    Arts and Humanities 1 course

    CLST 154

    Ancient Roman World

    This course provides a broad survey of Roman history, society, and literature from its foundation until the fall of the Roman Empire. Students read widely from Roman primary sources such as Cicero, Vergil, and Tacitus. Not open to students with credit in CLST 254.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    Arts and Humanities-or-Global Learning 1 course

    CLST 161

    Introduction to Mediterranean Archaeology

    This courses introduces students to the history, theory, and practice of Mediterranean archaeology. The course covers three areas: the rediscovery of Classical antiquity and its effect on European cultural and intellectual development; the basics of field methodology, including the use of technology; and the ethical role of the archaeologists in the interpretation and preservation of cultural remains. Offered in alternate fall semesters. Priority given to first-year students and sophomores.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    Social Science 1 course

    CLST 183

    Off-Campus Extended Studies Course

    Winter or May Term off-campus study project on a theme related to classical studies.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    variable

    CLST 197

    First-Year Seminar

    A seminar focused on a theme related to the study of classical studies. Open only to first-year students.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    1 course

    CLST 200

    Topics in Classical Studies

    Study of a specific topic in Mediterranean civilizations or literature. May be repeated for credit with different topics.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    1 course

    CLST 256

    The Impact of Empire: Augustus to Constantine

    This course will explore the following interconnected questions: How did Rome govern the enormous empire? How did Rome change the cultural and political map of the Ancient Mediterranean World? To what extent and how did the presence of the Roman rule transform the local and regional cultures? How did the expansion of the Empire have a reverse impact on the 'Roman Culture'? How were the 'barbarians' viewed at Rome?

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    Arts and Humanities 1 course

    CLST 258

    Greek and Roman Law

    This course explores the legal systems and procedures of Athens and Rome, exploring how legal sources expand our understanding of the lives of ordinary residents of the Ancient World. We will explore the forensic speeches of the Athenian lawcourts, which were famous both for the volume of their activity and the rhetoric employed there, and the writings of the Roman legal scholars -- the jurists, which form the core of the Roman legal system which is still influential in the modern world. Topics may include: ancient rhetoric and standards of proof, citizenship and rights of non-citizens, intersections of religion and law, property and inheritance, and legal thinking and categorization.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    Arts and Humanities 1 course

    CLST 263

    Archaeology of Greek Cities and Sanctuaries

    This course examines the monuments of the ancient Mediterranean from the early Iron Age to the death of Alexander the Great (ca. 900-323 BC). This period saw the rise of city-states across the Mediterranean, an expanded network of trade between Greeks, Persians, and Etruscans, and the consequent formation of cultural identities expressed through art and other material remains. Topics include: urban planning, colonization of new territories, the growth of pan-Hellenic sanctuaries, and cross-cultural influences in the Mediterranean. The course also critiques the use of Greek archaeology in the 18-20th centuries to construct European identity.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    Arts and Humanities-or-Global Learning 1 course

    CLST 264

    Hellenistic and Roman Art and Archaeology

    This course examines the artistic and architectural monuments of the Hellenistic kingdoms and the Roman world from the death of Alexander the Great through the end of the western Roman Empire (323 BC-AD 476). Issues may include: the archaeology of the economy and trade, the question of romanization (the archaeology of imperialism), iconography of political power, the material experience of everyday life, and the art of engineering. Offered in alternate spring semesters.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    Arts and Humanities 1 course

    CLST 265

    Troy and Aegean Archaeology

    This course explores the rise and fall of cultures and kingdoms during the Mediterranean Bronze Age (ca. 3200-1000 BC) through artistic and architectural remains. Special attention is given to the Minoans, Mycenaeans, Hittites, and Trojans, their relationship to one another, as well as to other regions of the Mediterranean (e.g., Egypt). Topics include: trade in raw materials and elite goods, the development of ceramics and sculpture, expressions of kingship, the Trojan War in myth and reality, and geo-environmental studies, such as the volcanic eruption of Thera. Attention is given to factors that contributed to widespread social and political collapse at the end of the Bronze Age.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    Arts and Humanities-or-Global Learning 1 course

    CLST 266

    Archaeology of Ancient Egypt

    This course surveys the art, architecture, and material culture of ancient Egypt from the prehistoric cultures of the Nile Valley to the end of the New Kingdom (ca. 4000-1000 BC). Topics include: the development of monumental architecture (e.g., pyramids), expressions of kingship, the construction of gender identity in art, and Egypt's role as a conduit for trade between the Mediterranean, western Asia, and Africa. This course also considers the legacy of European imperialism in the construction of ancient Egypt, particularly in regard to race and ethnicity.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    Arts and Humanities-or-Global Learning 1 course

    CLST 267

    Archaeology of Mesopotamia

    This course surveys the art and material culture of ancient Mesopotamia and its surrounding regions, including modern Iran, Iraq, and Syria. The periods range from the Neolithic to the end of the Bronze Age (ca. 5000-1000 BC). Topics include: environmental and material evidence for the development of agriculture and the first settled communities, the rise of kingship and palace administration in relation to the control and redistribution of resources, complex religious beliefs as expressed through art and architecture, and the origins of writing. The role of European imperialism in the history of Mesopotamian archaeology is also examined.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    Arts and Humanities-or-Global Learning 1 course

    CLST 273

    Why? The Quest for Meaning

    "Judging whether life is or is not worth living amounts to answering the fundamental question," wrote Albert Camus, the Nobel Prize winning Algerian author. In this course Ancient Greek and Roman writers such as Plato, Aristotle, and Lucretius launch the exploration of that fundamental question. That exploration, the quest for meaning, hinges upon the inescapable questions that these artists and philosophers pose again and again: What is a good life? What is happiness? What is the relationship between life's worth and the meaning of life?

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    Arts and Humanities 1 course

    CLST 274

    Backroads, Witchcraft, Romance: The Ancient Novel

    Ancient popular literature offers a portrait of the Mediterranean world that depicts figures underrepresented in other ancient literature, such as women, slaves, bandits, witches, merchants, and practitioners of mystery religions. Works include Greek authors of popular literature such as Lucian and Longus, The Life of Aesop and Aesop's fables, the Roman novels Petronius' Satyricon and Apuleius' Metamorphoses (or The Golden Ass). No prior knowledge of ancient Greek and Roman literature and culture is required for this course.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    Arts and Humanities 1 course

    CLST 281

    Airs, Waters, Places: Classics and the Environment (formerly CLST 351)

    This course repurposes the title of "Airs, Waters, Places," a Hippocratic treatise on the influence of place upon human health. In line with the Hippocratic investigation into the relationship between environment and human health, this course explores how ancient Greek and Roman thinkers and artists conceive of the environment and its role in shaping human culture and how the environment, in turn, informs the ideas and art of ancient Greek and Roman writers. Topics may include ancient conceptions and representations of the cosmos (ecology), wilderness, farming, and pastoral poetry.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    Arts and Humanities 1 course

    CLST 283

    Classica Africana

    Explores the ways in which modern literature of peoples of African descent engages with ancient Hellenic and Roman literature. This course may concentrate on African American literature, women writers, or literature of the African Diaspora. Example topics include how the art of Derek Walcott's Omeros, Ralph Ellison's Invisible Man, Toni Morrison's Beloved, and Rita Dove's Mother Love riffs on such works of classical literature as Homer's Odyssey, Euripides' Medea and The Homeric Hymn to Demeter.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    Arts and Humanities-or-Privilege, Power And Diversity 1 course

    CLST 300

    Topics

    The advanced study of a specific topic in Mediterranean civilizations or literature. Recent courses have treated such topics as Plato on Love and Pleasure, Gender in the Greek and Roman World, Damnation and Salvation, Socrates--The Mind and the Myth, Great Archaeological Discoveries, Greek and Roman Law, and Ancient History and Film. May be repeated for credit with topic changes. Information on upcoming topics courses can be found on the departmental Web page.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    1 course

    CLST 310

    Topics in Mediterranean Archaeology

    A study of a specific topic in Mediterranean archaeology. Recent courses have treated such topics as Pompeii, the Archaeology of North Africa, and the Archaeology of Israel. May be repeated for credit with topic changes. Information on upcoming topics courses can be found on the department web page.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    1 course

    CLST 454

    Senior Seminar

    A seminar on a specific topic in the field of classical studies. Students will complete a major paper or project in conjunction with the course. Open only to majors.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    1 course

    CLST 455

    Independent Senior Thesis

    Outstanding students in Classical Civilization, Latin, or Greek may choose to complete an intensive independent research project in their senior year. The project culminates in a written thesis (approx. 30-40 pages) and a public presentation of their research. The thesis is directed by a faculty member in the Department of Classical Studies. Thesis proposals must be approved by the Department of Classical Studies before a student can register for CLST 455.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    1 course

    Courses in Greek

    GRK 101

    Introduction to Ancient Greek I

    This course prepares students to read such ancient Greek texts as Homer's Iliad, Sappho's poetry, Plato's Symposium, Herodotus' Histories, Sophocles' Oedipus Rex, and the New Testament in the original language. Introduction to the essentials of ancient Greek vocabulary and grammar with emphasis on development of proficiency in reading ancient Greek literature. First semester of a two-semester sequence of introductory ancient Greek language courses. Applies toward the Distribution Area requirement in Language. Applies toward Major or Minor in Greek or Classical Civilization. Prerequisite for GRK 102. Offered every Fall Semester.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    Language 1 course

    GRK 102

    Introduction to Ancient Greek II

    Building upon GRK 101, this course prepares students to read such ancient Greek texts as Homer's Iliad, Sappho's poetry, Plato's Symposium, Herodotus' Histories, Sophocles' Oedipus Rex, and the New Testament in the original language. Introduction to the essentials of ancient Greek vocabulary and grammar with emphasis on development of proficiency in reading ancient Greek literature. Second semester of a two-semester sequence of introductory ancient Greek language courses. Applies toward the Distribution Area requirement in Language. Applies toward Major or Minor in Greek or Classical Civilization. Prerequisite for GRK 205. Offered every Spring Semester.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    Language GRK 101 or permission of the department 1 course

    GRK 205

    Greek Prose and Poetry

    Review of grammar and reading from representative Greek authors, usually including Homer or Plato. Prerequisite: GRK 101-102. May be repeated for credit.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    Language GRK 101-102 1 course

    GRK 211

    New Testament Greek

    Readings from the New Testament and from contemporary Christian, Jewish and pagan religious literature; the style and vocabulary of Hellenistic Greek. Prerequisite: GRK 101-102 or permission of instructor.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    Language GRK 101-102 or permission of instructor 1 course

    GRK 451

    Greek Reading

    Reading selected according to the interests and abilities of the students. One topic offered each semester, usually chosen from Homer (Iliad or Odyssey), lyric poetry, Greek tragedy, Herodotus, Thucydides or Plato. Exercises in prose composition may be included. Prerequisite: permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    Language Permission of instructor 1/2-1 course

    GRK 452

    Greek Reading

    A continuation of GRK 451.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    Language 1/2-1 course

    Courses in Latin

    LAT 123

    Elementary Latin I

    An introduction to classical Latin that emphasizes reading. The course provides a solid foundational knowledge of the Latin sentence structure and a thorough training in English grammar. Includes discussions of Roman life and culture.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    Language 1 course

    LAT 124

    Elementary Latin II

    A continuation of Latin 123, this course broadens and deepens students' understanding of Latin and English grammar to incorporate more complex sentence patterns. Students will read more extended passages of original Latin and continue explorations into Roman life and culture through literature. Prerequisite: Latin 123 or placement

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    Language LAT 123 or permission of the department 1 course

    LAT 223

    Intermediate Latin

    Combines a thorough review of elementary Latin and an introduction to continuous Latin texts from foundational authors such as Cicero, Caesar, Sallust, and Vergil. Teaches strategies for analyzing complex sentences and continuous passages. Includes some prose composition. Prerequisite: LAT 124 or two years of high school Latin (entering students should take the Latin placement exam during orientation) or permission of instructor.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    Language LAT 124 or two years of high school Latin (entering students should take the Latin placement exam during orientation) or permission of instructor. 1 course

    LAT 224

    Introduction to Latin Poetry

    An introduction to Latin poetics, combined with continued review of Latin syntax and morphology. Translation and analysis of selected texts from authors such as Catullus, Ovid, Martial, or Vergil. Prerequisite: LAT 124 or two years of high school Latin (entering students should take the Latin placement exam during orientation) or permission of instructor.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    Language LAT 124 or two years of high school Latin (entering students should take the Latin placement exam during orientation) or permission of instructor. 1 course

    LAT 331

    Readings in Latin Prose

    Advanced reading in Latin prose authors. Sample topics might include philosophical texts, the works of Cicero, or the Roman Novel. The course may include exercises in prose composition. May be repeated for credit if the topic changes. Prerequisite: permission of instructor. Normally follows Latin 224 or four years of high school Latin.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    Language Permission of instructor. Normally follows Latin 224 or four years of high school Latin. 1 course

    LAT 332

    Readings in Latin Poetry

    An advanced seminar on one of the following topics: (A) Latin Lyric poetry, with readings from Horace and Catullus; (B) Roman Satire, a history of the only uniquely Roman literary genre, with readings from Lucilius, Horace, and Juvenal; (C) Roman Elegy, with readings from Catullus, Propertius, Tibullus, and Ovid. May be repeated for credit if the topic changes. Prerequisite: permission of instructor. Normally follows Latin 224 or four years of high school Latin.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    Language Permission of instructor. Normally follows Latin 224 or four years of high school Latin. 1 course

    LAT 341

    Roman Drama

    Selected plays by Terence, Plautus, and Seneca in both the original Latin and in translation. Study of the history and development of Roman drama and its relationship with Greek drama. May be repeated for credit if the topic changes. Prerequisite: permission of instructor. Normally follows LAT 224 or four years of high school Latin.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    Permission of instructor. Normally follows Latin 224 or four years of high school Latin. 1 course

    LAT 431

    Roman Historians

    Selections from Livy, Sallust, Tacitus, or Suetonius in Latin and in translation, either concentrating upon an individual author or presenting a survey of roman Historiography. Examination of the process of evidence-gathering and writing history in ancient Rome. May include prose composition. May be repeated for credit if the topic changes.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    1 course

    LAT 432

    Vergil

    An examination not only of Vergil's great masterpiece, The Aeneid, but also his lesser works, the Ecologues and Georgics. Discussion of the pastoral and didactic traditions, as well as the history of Roman Epic poetry. Prerequisite: permission of instructor. Normally follows LAT 224 or four years of high school Latin.

    Distribution Area Prerequisites Credits
    Permission of instructor. Normally follows Latin 224 or four years of high school Latin. 1 course