Planning Your Program
The Department of Classical Studies offers major and minor programs in Classical Civilization, Greek Language and Literature, and Latin Language and Literature.
The Department of Classical Studies also offers three combined majors with the English Department in Classics and English, Greek and English, and Latin and English.
Once students declare a major in the Department of Classical Studies, they are assigned a faculty member who will serve as their advisor and help them develop a program to achieve their educational goals.
Classical Civilization Program Approved Courses
Through courses offered in the Department of Classical Studies and eight other arts and sciences departments, students may study the content and significance of the cultures of Greece and Rome. Although study of the ancient languages is encouraged, it is not required, allowing students to achieve a broad understanding of the literature, history, art, religions, political practices and theories, and philosophies of Greece and Rome. The program makes it possible to survey these civilizations and their influences from the Bronze Age to our present postmodern society.
Greek Language and Literature Program
Greece produced the first Western civilization. Geographical and historical factors combined to make this civilization individualistic, literate and multiform. The Greeks invented tragedy, comedy, history, democracy, philosophy and the liberal arts. They advanced and transformed epic and lyric poetry, law, science, medicine and mathematics. Courses focus on selected genres, topics and authors.
Latin Language and Literature Program
Rome is important for more than its empire. Under the influence of Greece, but in the face of unique challenges posed by new standards of power and wealth, the Romans created a society and a culture that succeeded like no other in integrating technology, design, discipline, citizenship and a moral sense. Courses focus on selected genres, topics and authors.
Teacher Training
The importance of high school Latin teachers to our field cannot be over-estimated. In states such as Virginia there is a shortage of qualified teachers. Students who may want to enter upon this rewarding career should speak with the department chair as early as possible so that appropriate plans can be made, including for finding opportunities to tutor and for scheduling Latin 411: The Teaching of High School Latin.
