Department of Classics
Chair
Edward J. Champlin
Departmental Representative
Marc Domingo Gygax
Professor
Edward J. Champlin
Denis C. Feeney
Andrew M. Feldherr
Harriet I. Flower
Andrew L. Ford
Robert A. Kaster
Joshua T. Katz
Nino Luraghi
Brent D. Shaw
Christian Wildberg
Froma I. Zeitlin, also Comparative Literature
Associate Professor
Marc Domingo Gygax
Constanze M. Güthenke, also Hellenic Studies
Janet M. Martin
Assistant Professor
Yelena Baraz
Janet D. Downie
Brooke A. Holmes
Lecturer
Michael A. Flower
Dimitri H. Gondicas
Herman Tull
Departmental Plan of Study
Two distinctive programs of study are offered within the Department of Classics. The first program, Classics, uses a knowledge of Greek and/or Latin as a gateway to the study of the literature, history, and culture of ancient Greece and Rome. The second, Classical Studies, allows for the study of different aspects of a specific period or facet of classical civilization and its impact and does not initially require a knowledge of Greek or Latin.
Classics
Prerequisites. To enter this program of study a student normally should have completed either Greek 108 or Latin 108. A strongly motivated student who has completed Greek 102 or Latin 102 may concentrate in this program of study with permission of the departmental representative.
Course Requirements. Eight departmental courses are required. Of these, five must be in the original languages at the 200 level or above, including at least one course at the 300 level. The combination of Latin 104–108, or Greek/Latin 105–108, may be counted as the equivalent of one 200-level course. One course in ancient history (Classics 214, 216, 217, 218, or 219, or History 343) must also be included among the eight departmentals.
Students may count, among the eight required courses, up to three not requiring the use of Greek or Latin, either those offered by the department or, with the approval of the departmental representative, courses in other departments that deal with aspects of Greek and Roman civilization (see examples below).
Students who are considering further work in the field, either in graduate school or in independent study, should take both Latin and Greek to the 300 level, continuing with both languages in each term of the junior and senior years. Such students are also strongly advised to take at least one course in Greek history and one in Roman history in their underclass years.
Independent Work. Junior Independent Work. In the fall term of the junior year departmental students will participate in a colloquium introducing them to research methods and library resources, to the creation and transmission of classical texts, and to computer-aided research tools. This seminar will lead to the production of a final written exercise of 10–15 pages. In the spring term each student will study a topic or author chosen in consultation with an adviser, who will meet regularly with the student for discussion and analysis, on the basis of which a substantial research paper will be produced.
Senior Independent Work. At the end of the second term of the junior year a departmental student is advised to select the subject of his or her senior thesis after consultation with a departmental faculty committee. The thesis in its final form shall be submitted to the departmental representative by April 15 of the senior year.
Examinations. Students are expected to pass the following examinations:
1. Sight translation from Greek or Latin. This examination may be taken, by arrangement, at the end of any term in junior or senior years; it will be graded pass/fail.
2. The senior comprehensive examination concerning Greek and Roman literature, history, and culture. Students will have the opportunity to write on either or both civilizations.
Areas of Study. Students concentrating in classics have the opportunity to study in depth one or more of the areas listed below.
Greek or Latin Literature. Literary texts form the core of the study of the classical world, and the majority of concentrators are likely to plan their program of study around literature. In addition to the many courses offered in Greek and Latin, the department offers a number of courses on literature in translation, including Classics 124 The Ancient Comic Tradition and Classics 323 Self and Society in Classical Greek Drama. Comparative Literature 205 The Classical Roots of Western Literature also treats many Greco-Roman works.
Ancient History. In addition to survey courses in Greek and Roman history (Classics 216, 217, 218, 219), the department offers courses on the ancient historians, given in Greek or Latin, and advanced seminars on selected historical topics (Classics 326, 327). Also available: Classics 214 The Other Side of Rome; Classics 324 Classical Historians and Their Philosophies of History; Classics 325 Roman Law; Near Eastern Studies 220 Jews, Muslims, and Christians in the Middle Ages; Near Eastern Studies 331 The Ancient Near East.
Classical Philosophy. Courses on Greek and Roman philosophers are offered in the original languages. Also available: Classics 205 Introduction to Ancient Philosophy; Philosophy 300 Plato and His Predecessors; Philosophy 301 Aristotle and His Successors.
Classical Art and Archaeology. Art and Archaeology 202 Greek Art: Ideal Realism; Art and Archaeology 203 Roman Art; Art and Archaeology 306 Classical Athens: Art and Institutions.
Medieval Studies. In addition to courses in medieval Latin (Latin 232), the following courses are offered: History 343 The Civilization of the Early Middle Ages; History 344 The Civilization of the High Middle Ages; Medieval Studies 227 The World of the Middle Ages; Politics 301 Ancient and Medieval Political Theory; Art and Archaeology 205 Medieval Art in Europe.
Ancient Religion and Mythology. Classics 212 Classical Mythology; Latin 338 Latin Prose Fiction; Religion 251 The New Testament and Christian Origins; Religion 340 Ancient Judaism and the Dead Sea Scrolls.
Comparative Literature. Classics 334 Modern Transformations of Classical Themes; Classics 335 Studies in the Classical Tradition; Classics 372 English Literature and the Classics; Comparative Literature 326 Tragedy.
Classical Studies
This program of study offers the opportunity for sustained and focused inquiry into the history, literature, and culture of the ancient Mediterranean, and its impact on later periods, using a variety of interpretative methods. The particular program for each student will be determined in collaboration with the departmental representative and/or a faculty adviser. The focus can be on a specific disciplinary subfield (e.g., ancient politics) or on a particular period to be explored from a number of perspectives (e.g., the history, literature, and art of Imperial Rome). Each program must have a methodological component designed to introduce the student to techniques of historical, literary, or sociological analysis appropriate to his or her particular interests. This component of the program will be satisfied by two comparative or methodological courses, the subject matter of which will not be primarily concerned with the classical world. These courses will be chosen by each student in consultation with a faculty adviser and/or the departmental representative and must be pre- approved by the departmental representative.
Prerequisites. One course from the list below (which may be taken during the spring semester of the sophomore year) or a comparable one-time only course. A second course in addition to the prerequisite is strongly recommended as well, but this course can count as one of the six fulfilling the course requirement 1a (below). A freshman seminar on a classical subject may count as a prerequisite, but may not be used to fulfill course requirement 1a.
Applicants to this program of study must submit a statement defining a field of concentration (e.g., Latin Epic, Greek History, Late Antique Culture) and prospective program of courses to the departmental representative of the Department of Classics by April 15. Given the range of possible interests each applicant may bring to the study of the ancient world, there is no set list of fields of concentration, but some examples are presented on the department’s website at www.princeton.edu/~classics, and faculty members can give additional guidance in preparing a program of study.
Course Requirements. The specific courses to be taken by each student must form a coherent program of study. Whatever the individual concentration, each student’s program must contain the following components:
1a. Six courses focusing in whole or in part on classical civilization or its influence (see the list below). At least three of these courses must be taught in the Department of Classics (CLA, CLG, or LAT). Courses taken during the freshman and sophomore year beyond the prerequisite may count toward this requirement if they are appropriate to the student’s overall program.
1b. Two comparative/methodological courses. The aim of this requirement is to introduce students to new perspectives and new tools of inquiry for exploring their chosen subject. There is no set list since different courses will be appropriate to different interests; for examples, see the department’s website. These courses must be pre-approved by the departmental representative to count as part of the student’s program.
2. Each student must successfully complete either Ancient Greek or Latin to the level of 108, or achieve an equivalent level of knowledge as determined by the departmental representative (e.g., by having satisfied the language requirement in either language or through a summer language program). However, at least one language course must be taken at Princeton.
Students should be aware that most graduate programs in classics will demand a more extensive training in the ancient languages than these minimum requirements. Those considering going on to graduate school should plan to do additional work in Greek and Latin either during their time at Princeton or through a post-baccalaureate program.
Independent Work. Junior Independent Work. In the fall term of the junior year, students will participate in a colloquium on a specific issue capable of being studied through multiple disciplinary perspectives (e.g., slavery, tragedy, magic). This colloquium is taken in addition to the normal course load. It will meet once a week for approximately the first eight weeks of the semester and will include a term paper. In the spring term each student will study a specific topic chosen in consultation with an adviser, with whom he/she will meet regularly for discussion and analysis, the result of which will be a substantial research paper.
Senior Independent Work. At the end of the second term of the junior year a departmental student is advised to select the subject of his or her senior thesis after consultation with a departmental faculty committee. The thesis in its final form shall be submitted through his or her supervisor to the departmental committee by April 15 of the senior year.
Examinations. A three-hour examination designed by the thesis adviser, but intended to cover the entirety of the student’s program of study, will be taken at the end of the spring semester of the senior year.
Courses That Can Serve as Prerequisites or Satisfy Requirement 1a:
Art and Archaeology
200 The Art and Archaeology of the Ancient Near East
202 Greek Art: Ideal Realism
203 Roman Art
204 Pagans and Christians: Urbanism, Architecture, and Art of Late Antiquity
300 Greek Archaeology of the Bronze Age
301 The Art of the Iron Age: The Near East and Early Greece
302 Myths in Greek Art
305 Greek and Roman Architecture
306 Classical Athens: Art and Institutions
308 Roman Cities and Countryside: Republic to Empire
Classics
Any CLA course
Comparative Literature
205 The Classical Roots of Western Literature
326 Tragedy
330 Literature and Law
Greek
Any 200- or 300-level CLG course
Latin
Any 200- or 300-level LAT course
Hellenic Studies
346 Introduction to Byzantine Civilization
History
290 The Scientific Worldview of Antiquity and the Middle Ages
343 The Civilization of the Early Middle Ages
344 The Civilization of the High Middle Ages
Humanistic Studies
216 Interdisciplinary Approaches to Western Culture I: Literature and the Arts
217 Interdisciplinary Approaches to Western Culture II: History, Philosophy, and Religion
Near Eastern Studies
331 The Ancient Near East
345 Introduction to Islamic Law
Philosophy
205 Introduction to Ancient Philosophy
300 Plato and His Predecessors
301 Aristotle and His Successors
Politics
301 Ancient and Medieval Political Theory
Religion
251 The New Testament and Christian Origins
252 The Early Christian Movement
340 Ancient Judaism and the Dead Sea Scrolls
Sample programs of study may be viewed on the departmental website at www.princeton.edu/~classics.
Hellenic Studies. This program is designed for those who wish to study the literature and civilization of ancient, Byzantine, and modern Greece.
Prerequisite. Classical Greek 102.
Courses. Before graduation each student must have attained the ability to read the literature of ancient Greece in the original language, as demonstrated by the successful completion of at least one course in ancient Greek at the 200 level or above and one at the 300 level, and must show competence in reading and speaking modern Greek. The remainder of the courses for departmental credit will be chosen in consultation with the departmental representative. Students in this program will be strongly encouraged to spend some time working or studying in Greece (see Study Abroad, below). Students in this program also may apply for admission to the Program in Hellenic Studies as concentrators in Plan C, which provides a diachronic survey of the Hellenic tradition from antiquity to the present.
Examinations. Students will take the same sight translation in ancient Greek described above. At the end of the senior year they will take the same comprehensive examination on an ancient Greek subject, as described above, and a two-hour examination in an area of post-Classical Greek history and literature.
Study Abroad. In the belief that travel and study in the Mediterranean are an important part of a classical education, the department strongly encourages its students to participate in one of the many programs available. Many departmental students spend one term of junior year at the Intercollegiate Center for Classical Studies in Rome. The center offers instruction in classical languages, presents lectures on ancient literature and history, and sponsors a series of trips to important museums and archaeological sites. Instruction is in English by American faculty members, and the curriculum is integrated with the Princeton undergraduate program. Equally valuable is the summer program at the American School of Classical Studies in Athens. The department has some funds to help meet the expenses of such summer study, and additional assistance may be available through the Program in Hellenic Studies.
Summer Study. Students who would benefit from intensive work in the languages may apply for financial assistance to study at a Greek or Latin institute.
Preparation for Graduate Work. Students who plan to do further work in the classics in graduate school are reminded that they will be required to pass proficiency examinations in reading French and German at an early stage of their graduate studies.
Certificate in the Language and Culture of Ancient Greece or Certificate in the Language and Culture of Ancient Rome
Students pursuing a major other than classics or classical studies may still demonstrate their command of one or both of the classical languages and the related culture by working for certificates in Greek and/or Roman language and culture. The requirements are:
1. Three Greek and/or Latin courses, of which one may be at the 200 level, and the others should be at the 300 level.
2. A piece of independent work. This can be satisfied in several ways: (a) by a substantial paper growing out of one of the courses taken to fulfill the certificate requirement (this will be in addition to the work required in the course); (b) by a substantial paper on a topic agreed upon with an instructor in the department and approved by the program; or (c) with the agreement of the home department and the program, by a piece of independent work that will satisfy the requirements of both home department and program. As a substitute for this requirement, students may either take an additional course in their language at the 200 or 300 level or a CLA course focusing on the culture of their certificate program.
To enter either certificate program, students must file a written application in the Department of Classics before October 1 of their senior year. For more information, please refer to the Program in Language and Culture (see page 284).
The Department Offers Courses in the Following Areas:
Courses taught through English translations, designated classics
Courses in Greek and Latin
Courses in modern Greek
Courses Taught through English Translations
CLA 124 The Ancient Comic Tradition Not offered this year LA
A study of the forms of ancient comic literature with attention to their influence on the later developments in comedy, especially of the Renaissance and 20th century. All works are read in English. Two lectures, one preceptorial. Staff
CLA 205 Introduction to Ancient Philosophy (see PHI 205)
CLA 208 Origins and Nature of English Vocabulary (also ENG 208) Not offered this year LA
The origins and nature of English vocabulary, from proto-Indo-European prehistory to current slang. Emphasis on the Greek and Latin component of English vocabulary, including technical terminology (medical/scientific, legal, and humanistic). Related topics: the alphabet and English spelling, slang and jargon, social and regional variation, vocabulary changes in progress, the “national language’’ debate. Two lectures, one preceptorial. J. Katz
CLA 212 Classical Mythology (also HUM 212) Fall LA
A study of classical myths in their cultural context and in their wider application to abiding human concerns (such as creation, generation, sex and gender, identity, heroic experience, death, transformations, and transcendence). A variety of approaches for understanding the mythic imagination and symbol formation through literature, art, and film. Two lectures, one preceptorial. B. Holmes
CLA 214 The Other Side of Rome (also CHV 214) Spring EM
An introduction to Roman culture emphasizing tensions within Roman imperial ideology, the course explores attitudes toward issues such as gender and sexuality, conspicuous consumption, and ethnicity through the works of authors such as Petronius, Lucan, and Tacitus. It also considers the role of cinematic representations of ancient Rome in 20th-century America. Two lectures, one preceptorial. A. Feldherr
CLA 215 The Literature of the Romans Not offered this year LA
An introduction to the literature of the Romans, covering major genres of particular importance for the later European literary tradition—historiography, epic, comedy, love poetry, and tragedy. The course will equip students with a basic idea of the main lines of Roman literary history, while enabling them to begin setting their reading of later European literature against an informed background of understanding. Two lectures, one preceptorial. Staff
CLA 216 Archaic and Classical Greece (also HIS 216) Not offered this year HA
A formative episode in Western civilization: the Greeks from the rise of the city-state, through the conflict between Athens and Sparta, to the emergence of Macedon in the fourth century B.C. Emphasis on cultural history, political thought, and the development of techniques of historical interpretation through analysis of original sources (Herodotus, Thucydides, and others). Two lectures, one preceptorial. N. Luraghi
CLA 217 The Greek World in the Hellenistic Age (also HIS 217) Spring HA
The Greek experience from Alexander the Great through Cleopatra. An exploration of the dramatic expansion of the Greek world into the Near East brought about by the conquests and achievements of Alexander. Study of the profound political, social, and intellectual changes that stemmed from the interaction of the cultures, and the entrance of Greece into the sphere of Rome. Readings include history, biography, religious narrative, comedy, and epic poetry. Two lectures, one preceptorial. M. Domingo Gygax
CLA 218 The Roman Republic (also HIS 218) Not offered this year HA
A study of the causes and unforeseen consequences of one small city-state’s rise to world empire, primarily through the analysis of ancient sources (including Livy, Polybius, Caesar, and Cicero) in translation. Emphasis on the development of Roman society and the evolution, triumph, and collapse of the republican government that it produced. Two lectures, one preceptorial. E. Champlin
CLA 219 The Roman Empire, 31 B.C. to A.D. 337 (also HIS 219) Fall HA
A study of the profound transformation of Rome by the multicultural empire it had conquered, ending with the triumph of Christianity. Emphasis on typical social and cultural institutions and on the legacies of Rome to us. Ancient sources in translation include documents, histories, letters, and novels. Two lectures, one preceptorial. E. Champlin
CLA 306 Classical Athens: Art and Institutions (see ART 306)
CLA 323 Self and Society in Classical Greek Drama (also COM 323) Not offered this year LA
Designed to give students who are without knowledge of the Greek language the opportunity to read widely and deeply in the field of Greek drama, with particular emphasis on an intensive study of Greek tragedy, its origins and development, staging, structure, and meanings. Two 90-minute seminars. Staff
CLA 324 Classical Historians and Their Philosophies of History (also HIS 328) Not offered this year HA
Major classical historians, especially Herodotus and Thucydides, are studied in connection with the theory and practice of the art or science of history. Lectures and preceptorials treat the development of historical writing and its relationship to philosophy, politics, literature, and science, and problems such as that of fact and interpretation in historical writing. Two lectures, one preceptorial. M. Domingo Gygax
CLA 325 Roman Law (also HIS 329) Not offered this year HA
The historical development of Roman law and its influence on modern legal systems. Particular attention is given to the fundamental principles of Roman private law, including the law of persons, property, inheritance, and contract; and there is a close analysis of courtroom procedure. Two lectures, one preceptorial. E. Champlin
CLA 326, 327 Topics in Ancient History and Religion (also HIS 326, 327) Fall HA
A period, problem, or theme in ancient history or religion with critical attention to the ancient sources and modern discussions. The topic and instructor vary from year to year. Format will change each time, depending on enrollment. M. Domingo Gygax
CLA 329 Sex and Gender in the Ancient World (also MED 329) Not offered this year SA
The theoretical and ideological bases of the Western attitudes toward sex and gender categories in their formative period in the Greco-Roman world through the study of myth and ritual, archaeology, art, literature, philosophy, science, medicine, law, economics, and historiography. Selected readings in classical and modern texts. J. Martin
CLA 330 Greek Law and Legal Practice (also CHV 330) Not offered this year EM
The development of Greek legal traditions, from Homer to the Hellenistic age. The course focuses on the relationship between ideas about justice, codes of law, and legal practice (courtroom trials, arbitration), and the development of legal theory. Two 90-minute seminars. Staff
CLA 334 Modern Transformations of Classical Themes (also COM 334, HLS 334) Fall LA
A special topic concerning the adaptation of one or more classical themes in contemporary culture through media such as literature, film, and music. J. Martin
CLA 335 Studies in the Classical Tradition (also HLS 335) Fall LA
A classical genre or literary theme will be studied as it was handed down and transformed in later ages, for example, the European epic; ancient prose fiction and the picaresque tradition; the didactic poem. Two 90-minute seminars. C. Güthenke
CLA 343 The Civilization of the Early Middle Ages (see HIS 343)
CLA 344 The Civilization of the High Middle Ages (see HIS 344)
CLA 372 English Literature and the Classics Not offered this year LA
The Greco-Roman tradition in English literature. Comparative readings in epic, pastoral, ode, tragedy, comedy, and other genres. Special attention to the problems of literary imitation and the effects of cultural changes upon literary genres. Classics read in English translation. Two lectures, one preceptorial. D. Feeney
CLA 412 The Archaeology of the Greek Theater (see ART 412)
Courses in Greek and Latin
Placement in Greek and Latin. Students with less than two years of either language are normally placed in 101. Those with two or more years of Latin are placed on the basis of SAT Subject Test scores, Advanced Placement examinations, or performance on the department’s placement test. A score of 740 on the SAT Subject Test or of 4 on either Latin Advanced Placement examination is sufficient to satisfy the A.B. language requirement in Latin and qualifies the student for courses at the 200 or 300 level. In these courses, it is assumed that the student controls the essentials of grammar and vocabulary and is free to work toward a fuller comprehension and appreciation of the works studied. Students offering SAT Subject Test or AP scores below 740 or 4, respectively, are placed in LAT 101, 104, or 105 on the basis of those scores. Those with two or more years of the language who have taken neither of the standardized tests are invited to take the department’s placement exam during freshman week. Greek placement is determined by consultation with the departmental representative.
Elements of the Ancient Languages
Greek. The courses listed below are designed to develop quickly a reading ability in the language and introduce the student to the most important forms of Greek literary expression. Completion of 108 not only fulfills the A.B. requirement in language and provides a foundation for departmental concentration, but also serves students who, though not planning to enter the department, are interested in approaching firsthand the Greek contribution to Western literature, history, philosophy, law, and religion.
Several sequences are available, depending on the student’s preparation. Those with no previous experience can begin either with the two-semester sequence, 101–102, or the one-semester intensive course, 103 (offered only in the spring), then move on to 105, and thereafter to 108. Students with significant background can be placed in 105, followed by 108. Students with still more substantial background may be placed in a 200-level course.
CLG 101* Beginner’s Greek: Greek Grammar Fall
Reading in the language is combined throughout with the learning of forms, vocabulary, and syntax. A foundation is built in classical vocabulary and grammar during the first term as a base for the student in the continuing course, Greek 102. Four classes. A. Ford
CLG 102* Beginner’s Greek: Attic Prose Spring
The study of vocabulary, grammar, and syntax is continued from 101 by intensive reading in Attic prose of the classical period. Authors such as Plato are read. Four classes. C. Güthenke
CLG 103 Ancient Greek: An Intensive Introduction Spring
An intensive introduction to the essentials of Greek grammar. Students will begin reading Attic prose as quickly as possible. 103 covers the material of 101–102 in a shorter period through increased class time, drills, and earlier exposure to actual Greek texts. Leads directly to 105. Five classes. B. Holmes
CLG 105 Socrates Fall
The life and teaching of Socrates based upon the evidence of Plato and Xenophon. Aristophanes’s Clouds may also be read in English, with some excerpts in Greek. Includes a review of the grammar of Attic prose. Prerequisite: 102 or 103, or instructor’s permission. Four classes. B. Holmes
CLG 108 Homer Spring
The course consists of extensive reading in the Iliad supplemented by lectures and study assignments directed to Homer’s literary art and to the moral and religious thought of the Homeric epics. Four classes. Prerequisite: 103, or the equivalent. J. Katz
Latin. Several sequences are available, depending on the student’s preparation. Those with no previous experience can begin either with the two-semester sequence, 101–102, or the one-semester intensive course, 103 (offered only in the spring), then move to 105, and thereafter 108. Students with some, but not extensive, background are usually placed in 104 (for more structured grammar review) or 105. Either course is followed by 108. More advanced students may enroll in 108 (in some cases, 203). Completion of 108 not only fulfills the A.B. requirement in language and provides a foundation for departmental concentration, but also serves students who, though not planning to enter the department, are interested in approaching firsthand the Roman contribution to Western literature, history, philosophy, law, and religion.
LAT 101* Beginner’s Latin Fall
The course is designed to introduce the student with no previous training in the language to the basics of grammar, vocabulary, and syntax. A foundation is built in the first term for continuation in the spring-term course, 102. Four classes. R. Kaster
LAT 102* Beginner’s Latin Continued: Basic Prose Spring
The study of grammar, vocabulary, and syntax is continued from Latin 101. Reading in basic prose works by authors such as Cicero or Caesar completes the course. Four classes. Staff
LAT 103 Latin: An Intensive Introduction Spring
An intensive introduction to the Latin language that covers the material of 101–102 in a shorter time through increased class time and drills. Students completing the course will be prepared to take LAT 105. Four classes, one drill. R. Kaster
LAT 104 Intensive Intermediate Latin Not offered this year
An alternative to Latin 105, offering more review of Latin grammar and syntax. Also designed as an introduction to Latin literature through selected readings in poetry and prose. Five classes. R. Kaster
LAT 105 Intermediate Latin: Catullus and His Age Fall
Selections from the poems of Catullus and from Cicero’s Pro Caelio form the core of the reading. 105 is a continuation of 102 and is designed as an introduction to Latin literature. Important grammatical and syntactical principles are reviewed. Four classes. Prerequisite: 102 or equivalent. Staff
LAT 108 The Origins of Rome: Livy and Vergil Spring
The reading will be composed of excerpts from the early books of Livy’s History of Rome, together with selections from Vergil’s Aeneid (such as Book 4 or 8). The course introduces the student to two major works of the Augustan Age and gives advanced instruction in the Latin language. Fulfills the A.B. language requirement. Four classes. Prerequisite: 104, 105, or equivalent. Staff
Advanced Courses in Greek and Latin
From the courses listed below, the department normally offers, in Greek, at least one 200-level and one 300-level course each term. In Latin, one 200- and two 300-level courses are normally offered each term.
CLG 213 Tragic Drama Not offered this year LA
The tragic drama of the last three decades of the fifth century B.C. Normally one tragedy each by Euripides and Sophocles is read in Greek, with other texts and critical work in English. Two 90-minute seminars. A. Ford
CLG 214 Seminar Not offered this year LA
Deals with a major topic in Greek literature or cultural history with readings from several of the most important Greek authors. Three hours. Prerequisite: Greek 108 or equivalent. Alternates with 213. J. Downie
CLG 240 Introduction to Postclassical Greek from the Late Antique to the Byzantine Era (also HLS 240) Fall LA
Readings will focus on historical, literary, philosophical, or religious texts with a range from the Hellenistic to the Byzantine periods. Three classes. J. Downie
CLG 301 Plato Not offered this year LA
Reading of selected dialogues with lectures on various aspects of the Platonic philosophy. One lecture, one class, one preceptorial. C. Güthenke
CLG 302 Greek Tragedy Not offered this year LA
Three tragedies are read in class; others (both in Greek and English) are assigned as outside reading. The preceptorials deal with general discussions of tragedy, including Aristotle’s Poetics. Two classes, one preceptorial. Staff
CLG 304 Greek Historians Not offered this year HA
Intensive study of a major historical author, such as Herodotus or Thucydides, with special attention to narrative technique and historiographical principles. Three classes. M. Flower
CLG 305 Greek Comedy Fall LA
Several plays of Aristophanes are read in the original (for example, Acharnians, Clouds) and others in translation. The emphasis of the course is on the language and verbal effects of the comedies, and on the connections of Old Comedy with Euripidean tragedy, contemporary politics, and philosophy. Consideration is also given to New Comedy, with selections from Menander’s Dyskolos in Greek. Three classes. C. Güthenke
CLG 306 Greek Rhetoric: Theory and Practice Not offered this year HA
An introduction to the major techniques of Greek rhetoric with special attention to rhetorical treatises such as Aristotle’s Rhetoric and to the application of these techniques in oratory and other literary forms. A. Ford
CLG 307 Homer and the Epic Tradition Not offered this year LA
All of the Odyssey is read in English and a considerable portion is read in Greek. Classes include close translation of key passages and reports on special topics. Emphasis is upon literary interpretation of the epic on the basis of detailed analysis of epic style, diction, and narrative techniques. Three classes. F. Zeitlin
CLG 308 The Lyric Age of Greece Not offered this year LA
Major texts of the Greek lyric age in their cultural and literary setting. An author such as Hesiod or Pindar may be selected for intensive treatment. Three classes. N. Luraghi
CLG 310 Topics in Greek Literature Not offered this year LA
The subject matter of the course will vary from year to year depending on the interests of the instructor and students. The reading may concentrate on one or more authors, a theme, a genre, a personality, or an event. Staff
LAT 203 Introduction to Augustan Literature Fall LA
Readings from Ovid, particularly his love poetry and his “epic,’’ the Metamorphoses, as well as from other poets (such as Horace, Tibullus, and Propertius). Three hours. Prerequisite: 108 or equivalent. H. Flower, B. Shaw
LAT 204 Seminar Not offered this year HA
The course will deal with a major topic in Roman cultural history or Latin literature, with readings from three or four of the most important Latin authors. Three hours. This course may be taken for credit more than once, provided different topics are treated. Prerequisite: 108 or equivalent. H. Flower
LAT 205 Roman Letters Not offered this year LA
A careful reading of a selection of Latin letters in prose and verse by Cicero, Horace, Ovid, Pliny, and others in order to understand the place this important form of communication held in Roman culture. Prerequisite: 108 or permission of instructor. Two 90-minute classes. R. Kaster
LAT 210 Invective, Slander, and Insult in Latin Literature Not offered this year LA
This course aims to build skills in reading literary Latin in a variety of genres, both poetry and prose, while introducing students to an important social function shared by many types of texts: winning status and prestige by slandering a rival. The substance of this invective—the kind of insult that wins over an audience—can also tell us much about Roman values in various realms of public and personal behavior. Prerequisite: 108 or instructor’s permission. Seminar. E. Champlin
LAT 232 Introduction to Medieval Latin Fall LA
Intended for students in any field interested in the Latin Middle Ages. Readings will include a wide variety of prose and poetry from the 4th to the 14th centuries. Attention will be given both to improving reading skills and to acquiring essential background information and critical method. Three classes. Prerequisite: 108 or equivalent. J. Martin
LAT 234 Latin Language and Stylistics Not offered this year LA
Study of the development of literary Latin (predominantly prose), with translation to and from Latin. Syntactic and stylistic analysis of sections of such authors as Cicero, Sallust, Seneca. Translations of brief portions of major authors, with practice in thematically related composition. Two 90-minute meetings. R. Kaster
LAT 330 Cicero Fall LA
The course will present a representative selection from Cicero’s enormous literary production. The specific texts studied will differ from year to year, but will normally include extensive reading from at least two of the three main genres of Cicero’s prose works: essays, letters, and orations. Three classes. R. Kaster
LAT 331 Horace Not offered this year LA
Selected Odes, Epodes, Satires, and Epistles are read with emphasis on Horace’s relation to Greek poetry, his poetic techniques and originality, his ethical and literary views, his portrayal of the life and culture of Augustan Rome, and his influence upon English poetry. Two classes, one preceptorial. A. Feldherr
LAT 332 Roman Drama Not offered this year LA
The course will concentrate on a single author (for example, Plautus) or will survey the development and technique of the drama in Rome, with major emphasis on comedy. Three classes. A. Feldherr
LAT 333 Vergil’s Aeneid Not offered this year LA
An intensive study of the Aeneid, with focus on literary values but also with consideration of political and social factors, literary ancestry, and influence. Three classes. D. Feeney
LAT 334 Vergil’s Eclogues and Georgics Not offered this year LA
Critical reading and literary analysis of Vergil’s cycle of 10 pastoral poems (Eclogues) and of the four books of Georgics. Three classes. Y. Baraz
LAT 335 Roman Literature: Selected Author or Authors Not offered this year LA
The subject matter of the course will vary from year to year, depending on the interests of the instructor and students. The reading may concentrate on one or more authors, a theme, a genre, a personality, or an event. Two classes, one preceptorial. A. Feldherr
LAT 336 Epicureanism and Stoicism Not offered this year EM
A study of the two main philosophical schools of the Republic and Early Empire: Epicureanism and Stoicism. Readings (in Latin) will be selected from Lucretius, Cicero, and Seneca, supplemented by selections from Greek sources in English translation. Three classes. D. Feeney
LAT 337 Roman Republican Historians Not offered this year HA
Selections of historians’ works are read that illustrate topics such as the historian’s use of sources, historical outlook, narrative techniques, style, and reliability. Sample historians of the Republic who may be read are Livy, Sallust, and Caesar, depending on the interests of the instructor and students. Two 90-minute classes. Staff
LAT 338 Latin Prose Fiction Not offered this year LA
A critical study of Latin fiction such as Petronius’s Satyricon and Apuleius’s Metamorphoses (Golden Ass). Although the chief emphasis will be on the literary aspects of these influential works, some attention will also be given to their value as social and religious documents of their time. Two 90-minute classes. E. Champlin
LAT 339 Roman Historians of the Empire Not offered this year HA
An examination of historians’ approaches to history and their literary merits; sample historians to be surveyed include Tacitus, Suetonius, and Velleius Paterculus; sample topics to be covered include their views of autocracy (nature and effects) and of Roman civilization (value, influence, shortcomings). Two 90-minute classes. R. Kaster
LAT 340 Roman Satire Not offered this year LA
Selected satires of Horace, Juvenal, and Persius are read. Classes emphasize translation, stylistic analysis, and explication of the texts. There are also reports on special topics such as the origins and development of satire at Rome, and at least one in-depth interpretation by each student of a selected individual passage. Three classes. J. Martin
LAT 342 Roman Elegy from Catullus to Ovid Fall LA
Selections from Latin elegy. Students will read the fourth book of Propertius and sections of Ovid’s Fasti, together with other elegies. Focuses on the poetic presentation of the metropolis of Rome, its history, religion, and urban life. Two 90-minute classes. A. Feldherr
Courses in Modern Greek
MOG 101* Elementary Modern Greek I (see HLS 101)
MOG 102* Elementary Modern Greek II (see HLS 102)
MOG 105 Intermediate Modern Greek (see HLS 105)
MOG 107 Advanced Modern Greek (see HLS 107)
*Normally students electing a beginner’s course in any language will receive credit only if two terms are completed.
