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Classical studies introduces students to the languages, literature, history, and material culture of the Greeks and Romans as well as the larger Mediterranean world from about the eighth century BCE to the fifth century CE. Aren’t Greek and Latin dead languages, you ask? Hardly. English is filled with Latinate words, and Greek is the basis of most scientific terminology. Furthermore, as long as people read Homer, Plato, Greek tragedy, the New Testament, Catullus, Virgil, Ovid, and Tacitus—to mention just some of the greatest hits in Greek and Latin literature—these ancient languages remain very much alive. So, too, literary genres (such as epic poetry, tragedy, and history), political institutions and ideals (such as democracy and free speech), as well as principles of philosophy and science are all part of the rich legacy that the ancient Greeks and Romans handed down to the modern world.

You do not have to learn Greek and Latin to pursue classical studies. We offer courses whose readings are entirely in English, and you can find courses related to classical studies in the departments of art history, history, philosophy, politics, and religion.