Course Details

Are the ancient Romans still relevant to modern conversations and ways of life? This course invites students to strengthen their skills in various kinds of writing by developing a range of historically, linguistically and culturally informed modern ways to write about the ancient world. Some class work will include exploration of the vocabulary, syntax and rhetorical devices of the Latin language and its ancient Roman context. Students will also develop a research project on an issue in the ancient world of especial interest to them. Assignments will also include essays and various kinds of informative and persuasive writing. Writing projects will require meticulous citation of primary and secondary sources, and will be revised on the basis of several drafts and peer review. Projects will be gathered into a portfolio along with a final reflection. Some previous exposure to the Latin language is desirable, but not required. Students with background and interests in ancient Greek can also be accommodated.