CLASSICAL STUDIES (CLA)
The Classical Studies concentration offers students an interdisciplinary approach to the classics. The program combines a linguistic focus (on Latin) with extensive training in a variety of disciplines pertaining to Greek and Roman antiquity. Students will be able to choose from courses in ancient art, classical literature, ancient history, ancient philosophy, and related fields.This concentration helps prepare students for graduate study of classics, ancient history, archaeology, and museum studies.
The concentration consists of a minor in Latin (18 hours) plus another 18 hours to be taken from three of the following pairs of courses: (a) ART 106 and 362; (b) CLA 101 and 102; (c) HIS 301 and 302; and (d) PHI 311 and 360 (when the topic is a classical philosopher). One additional course must be taken from ANT 354, CLA 153S-253S (if three credits or more), GRK 111 or 112, or another course from (a)-(d) above. The concentration includes a total of 39 hours, 21 in upper-division courses. A portfolio of three sample papers from three different disciplines from courses taken for the concentration must be submitted at the completion of the program.
Classical literature courses have no language prerequisites. These courses are recommended as electives or to fulfill the requirements of the Classical Studies concentration. CLA 101 and 102 may also be taken for general education credit (Humanities and Fine Arts, Group 3.)
Course Descriptions
CLA 101. Epic, Lyric, and Tragedy (3 hours)
This course introduces students to three major genres of classical Greek and Roman literature. All texts are read in English translation and focus on themes such as the hero and the ancients’ view of their gods. The reading list includes some of the most prominent authors of classical literature, such as Homer, Sappho, Pindar, Aeschylus, Sophocles, Euripides, Catullus, Horace, Vergil, Propertius, and Ovid. In addition to close literary interpretations and discussions, the course offers an introduction to classical mythology and culture. (Every two years) Syllabus and Study Abroad.
CLA 102. Comedy and Satire (3 hours)
This course introduces students to two genres which share a high degree of wit and humor, but which also deliver social and/or political criticism on a deeper level of meaning. All texts are read in English translation. The reading list includes authors such as Aristophanes and Menander (Greek comedy), Plautus and Terence (Roman comedy), as well as Horace, Persius, Martial, Juvenal, Petronius, and Seneca (all representatives of satire, a genre dominated by Roman writers). (Every two years) Syllabus
CLA 153S-253S. Classical Studies Abroad (Variable credit; up to 12 hours)
Prerequisites: none for CLA 153S, consent of the instructor for CLA 253S. Study abroad with emphasis on one or more of the following areas: Roman and Ancient Greek literature, history, archaeology, art, architecture, language, philosophy, religion, everyday life, and other areas of classical culture. May be taken more than once. (Occasional)