Classical studies is an exciting new interdisciplinary minor that will satisfy students' desire to know more about the ancient world and its enduring importance for diverse areas of contemporary study. The minor provides a coherent framework for studies of literatures and cultures from earliest known history to the fifth century AD, exposing students to various approaches to the ancient world and helping them to draw connections between skills and knowledge learned in a range of disciplines. Classes included in the minor are drawn from six departments throughout the university including English, fine arts, foreign languages, history, philosophy and religion, and political science.
Besides introducing students to specific areas of inquiry into the ancient world, the minor is meant to hone three important transferable skills that students can bring to other areas of study and to their future careers. These are: (1) analysis, (2) comparison, and (3) debate.
Analysis: By researching the history and cultures of antiquity, you will learn how to draw conclusions from disparate sources of information. You will learn about the problems of translation and interpretation when it comes to the written records of antique cultures and languages. You will also learn how to weigh written records against other kinds of artifacts such as archaeological remains.
Comparison: By delving into multiple cultures, you will learn about the complexities and challenges that come with cultural difference.
Debate: One of the most valuable aspects of studying the ancient world is the insight it can give to a modern student about the history of ideas. With more knowledge about the distant past, you will understand where certain concepts originated and ultimately become more confident and effective in debating issues that affect your own lives.
