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The Ancient History major immerses you in the civilizations of ancient Greece and Rome, examining their myths, artifacts, inscriptions, historical texts, and literature as primary sources.
Explore the philosophies, governance, and societies of antiquity through lenses like political structures, belief systems, legal frameworks, mythology, servitude, displacement, scientific thought, and the late classical era. Engage with translated works of epic poetry, theatrical plays, and lyrical compositions within their original social and historical settings, while recognizing their enduring influence across generations (including contemporary media).
This program challenges you to examine fundamental questions about governance structures, democratic principles, legal systems, fundamental freedoms, belief traditions, and the cultural significance of myths and narratives in human societies - while inspiring critical reflection on historical interpretation and documentation.
Modern society remains deeply connected to the cultural heritage of Classical antiquity. Numerous foundational concepts we cherish today originated from - and were contested by - ancient societies whose parallels and contrasts with our own continue to stimulate intellectual inquiry. The curriculum progresses from introductory courses that establish essential knowledge and analytical techniques, through intermediate and advanced studies that refine your expertise while concentrating on specific historical periods or thematic investigations. This structured approach aims to deepen your comprehension of the Classical world's historical significance and enable you to critically assess its contemporary relevance.