BA in Classical Civilization in Syracuse United States | Syracuse University

First, studying Classics opens up numerous captivating intellectual avenues for students. The vast array of Greek and Latin literature spans such varied genres that those drawn to history, theater, verse, government studies, or philosophical thought will discover abundant resources to spark their interest. Additionally, learners will cultivate the skill to engage with seminal Western texts in their original tongues while exploring civilizations that, though fundamentally distinct from contemporary society, form the bedrock of numerous modern concepts and systems.
Having long held a pivotal position in academia, Classical Studies have profoundly influenced Western thought, governance, and creative expression. Writers ranging across centuries and continents—from Dante to Derek Walcott—have sought creative fuel in classical heritage, while political thinkers and leaders like Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton shaped their governmental visions by meticulously analyzing ancient historians including Polybius and Thucydides. Grasping how classical works were received and reinterpreted through time equips students with deeper insights into societal and historical contexts, enhancing their comprehension of current cultural dynamics.