Classics

The Classics

Students of the Classics investigate all aspects of the cultures of ancient Greece and Rome from the beginnings of Greek civilization up to the fall of the Roman Empire, a period that includes the rise of Athenian democracy in the fifth century B.C. and the cultural splendor of imperial Rome in the first and second centuries A.D. Many of our Department's courses teach the ancient languages, Greek and Latin. These classes combine close reading of ancient texts with interpretation of their cultural and literary significance. Our Department provides a wide range of approaches to the discipline, with courses regularly offered in ancient literature, art and archaeology, history, and philosophy.

The Classics department is widely regarded as one of the finest undergraduate programs in the country.  The 10-member full-time faculty (which includes two archaeologists) is one of the largest at a liberal arts college and supports an unusually broad range of courses.

The department teaches Greek and Latin through a variety of instructional methods to enhance the cultural background and language skills of all its students. Classes combine close reading of ancient texts with interpretation of their cultural and literary significance. The department’s St. Isidore of Seville Computer Lab offers students many new research resources.

Integrating advanced information technology with traditional modes of investigation, the Classics department gives students a comprehensive view of the ancient civilizations of Greece and Rome.  In addition to pursuing individual research projects, majors have the opportunity to participate in one of the College’s study abroad programs in Athens and Rome.

Questions about the Classics Department? Call us at 508-793-2547 or e-mail classicsdept@holycross.edu.