Office of the Registrar
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences (2022/2023)
16.3 Classics

In accordance with Senate's Policy Regarding Inactive Courses, the course descriptions for courses which have not been offered in the previous three academic years and which are not scheduled to be offered in the current academic year have been removed from the following listing. For information about any of these inactive courses, please contact the Head of the Department.

In special circumstances, prerequisites may be waived with the permission of the Head of the Department.

A tentative list of upcoming Classics course offerings can be found at www.mun.ca/hss/courses.php.

Classics courses are designated by CLAS.

16.3.1 Greek

All sections of the Greek language courses below, except CLAS 4999, follow the Language Study Course Guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/ls.

1130

Introductory Ancient Greek I

(same as Medieval Studies 1130) familiarizes students with the basics of the Ancient Greek language. Students will master the Ancient Greek alphabet, learn how to read simple narratives in Ancient Greek, and examine the connections between language and culture. Evaluation will focus largely on comprehension of written Ancient Greek. All sections of this course follow the Language Study Course Guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/ls.

CR: Medieval Studies 1130

1131

Introductory Ancient Greek II

(same as Medieval Studies 1131) continues to familiarize students with the Ancient Greek language. Students will acquire a broad vocabulary, learn to read more complex passages of prose and poetry, and gain insights into key social concepts through study of language. All sections of this course follow the Language Study Course Guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/ls.

CR: Medieval Studies 1131

PR: CLAS 1130 or Medieval Studies 1130

2300

Intermediate Ancient Greek

(same as Medieval Studies 2300) provides a deeper knowledge of the Ancient Greek language while offering a window onto the culture and society of Ancient Greece. Students will read selections from works of history, literature, philosophy and oratory in Ancient Greek. All sections of this course follow the Language Study Course Guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/ls.

CR: Medieval Studies 2300

PR: CLAS 1131 or Medieval Studies 1131

2302

Readings in New Testament Greek

- inactive course.

3300

Advanced Ancient Greek

(same as Medieval Studies 3300) provides advanced knowledge of the Ancient Greek language while offering a window onto the culture and society of Ancient Greece. Students will begin to apply their knowledge to the close reading and interpretation of major works of Ancient Greek literature. All sections of this course follow the Language Study Course Guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/ls.

CR: Medieval Studies 3300

PR: CLAS 2300 or Medieval Studies 2300

4300

Greek Tragedy

PR: CLAS 3300

4305

Greek Comedy

PR: CLAS 3300

4310

Greek Epic Poetry

PR: CLAS 3300

4315

Attic Orators

PR: CLAS 3300

4320

Greek Lyric Poetry

PR: CLAS 3300

4325

Greek Historians

PR: CLAS 3300

4340

Greek Philosophical Authors

PR: CLAS 3300

4355-4365

Special Topics in Greek Readings

will have authors and readings selected by the Department.

PR: CLAS 3300

4370

Hellenistic Poetry

PR: CLAS 3300

4391

Special Authors

PR: CLAS 3300

4999

Honours Essay

is a requirement of the Honours program.

PR: CLAS 3300

AR = Attendance requirement; CH = Credit hours are 3 unless otherwise noted; CO = Co-requisite(s); CR = Credit can be retained for only one course from the set(s) consisting of the course being described and the course(s) listed; LC = Lecture hours per week are 3 unless otherwise noted; LH = Laboratory hours per week; OR = Other requirements of the course such as tutorials, practical sessions, or seminars; PR = Prerequisite(s); UL = Usage limitation(s).
16.3.2 Greek and Roman Studies

Medieval Studies 3000 may be substituted for a Greek and Roman Studies course in both the Classics degree programs (Honours, Joint Honours and general degree) and the Greek and Roman Studies degree programs (Honours, Joint Honours and general degree).

1001

Critical Reading and Writing: Classics in Popular Culture

is an introduction to the ways in which modern popular culture represents and understands the ancient Greek and Roman world. Emphasis is placed on learning and practising critical reading and writing skills, including the comprehension and analysis of primary sources and secondary literature, and effective academic composition. All sections of this course follow Critical Reading and Writing Course Guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/crw.

1051

Gods in Classical Mythology

is an introduction to some of the major myths of ancient Greece and Rome, with particular attention to the gods. The myths will be studied with reference to their social and historical contexts, literary and artistic representations, modern theories of interpretation, and influences on modern modes of cultural expression.

CR: the former CLAS 1050

1052

Heroes in Classical Mythology

is an introduction to some of the major myths of ancient Greece and Rome, with particular attention to the heroes. The myths will be studied with reference to their social and historical contexts, literary and artistic representations, modern theories of interpretation, and influences on modern modes of cultural expression.

CR: the former CLAS 1050

1100

Life in Ancient Greece

is a general survey of the origins and evolution of Ancient Greek Civilization. The course introduces the student to Greek social and political institutions, religion and myth, and achievements in art, philosophy, science and literature, as well as the influence of Ancient Greece on the modern world.

1200

Life in Ancient Rome

is a general survey of the origins and evolution of Ancient Rome. The course introduces the student to social, political, and legal institutions, the growth of the Roman Empire, Roman art, literature, and religions, as well as Rome's pervasive influence in the modern world.

2010

Greek Art and Architecture

is an introduction to the study of the art and architecture of Ancient Greece, its social, religious, and political functions in Athens and the greater Greek world. The course introduces students to different ways of analysing and interpreting the material remains of the ancient Greeks and traces their echoes in modern art and architecture.

2015

Roman Art and Architecture

is an introduction to the study of the art and architecture of Ancient Rome, its social, religious, and political functions in Rome and the provinces. The course introduces students to different ways of analysing and interpreting the material remains of the ancient Romans and traces their echoes in modern art and architecture.

2020

History of the Hellenistic World

(same as History 2034) is a survey of the history of the Mediterranean world and the Near East from the death of Alexander the Great in 323 BCE until the incorporation of the Kingdom of Egypt in the Roman Empire in 30 BCE. Particular attention is given to the influence of the new monarchies on political, social and cultural developments in both Greek and non-Greek communities.

CR: History 2034

2025

Ancient Near Eastern History

(same as History 2020) is an introduction to the history of ancient city-states, kingdoms and empires in Egypt and/or Mesopotamia, including economic, social, political and cultural developments. Students will be introduced to the rich heritage that influences the modern Middle East and its relations with the traditions of Europe.

CR: History 2020

2035

History of Classical Greece

(same as History 2035) is a survey of Greek History from the Bronze Age to the death of Alexander the Great, with special reference to the social and political institutions of the fifth century BCE. Students will learn about the foundations of modern democracy and its responses to internal and external challenges.

CR: History 2035

2041

History of the Roman Republic

(same as History 2041) is a survey of Roman history from the early monarchy to the death of Julius Caesar, with special reference to the society and politics of the late Republican period. Students will learn about the different ways in which modern states have, for good or ill, attempted to emulate republican Roman political structures.

CR: History 2041, the former CLAS 2040, the former History 2040

2042

History of the Roman Empire

(same as History 2042) is a survey of Roman history from the death of Julius Caesar to the rise of Constantine, with special reference to the society and politics of the early Imperial period. Course contents may also include the representation of Roman emperors and imperial culture in modern film and television.

CR: History 2042, the former CLAS 2040, the former History 2040

2055

Women in the Ancient World

is an examination of the role of women in ancient Mediterranean civilizations from the perspectives of social and political history and culture. Critical assessments of relevant scholarship and methodologies will be included. Students will gain awareness of views of gender identity and sexuality that are different from modern views.

2156

Gladiators and the Arena: Violent Spectacle in Ancient Rome

is an introduction to the violent and dangerous spectacles of ancient Rome: gladiatorial combat, beast fighting, executions, and chariot-racing. Emphasis will be placed on exploring the historical details of these spectacles, their significance in relation to aspects of Roman society, and representations of Roman gladiators, the arena, and chariot-racing in modern culture.

2701

History of Ancient Philosophy

(same as Philosophy 2201, the former Philosophy 2701) introduces students to the origins of philosophy among the ancient Greeks and Romans. Topics include cosmology, metaphysics, physics, ethics, God, and the ancient ideal of philosophy as a ‘way of life.’ We will examine the texts and fragments of the most influential and foundational philosophers of the ancient world, focusing primarily on the thought of Plato and Aristotle, their engagement with the Pre- Socratic philosophers who came before them, and their influence upon philosophers since.

CR: Philosophy 2201, the former Philosophy 2701

2900

Science and Technology in the Ancient World

is an introduction to significant developments in ancient Greek and Roman science and technology with emphasis on interpreting the primary evidence, including written sources (in translation) and material remains, assessing the historical and social context, considering the nature of changes, and their influence on modern science and technology.

2901

Technology and Culture in the Ancient World

is an introduction to the applied technologies of the Greek and Roman cultures from ancient written sources and archaeological remains. It covers the time from the Late Bronze Age through the Late Roman Empire. Topics include machinery and gadgets, mass production, engineering, nautical technology, and labour. Students learn to assess the feedback between modern technology and culture by analysing equivalent situations in the ancient world.

2902

The Environment of the Greeks and Romans

is an introduction to the environment in the ancient Greek and Roman world. It gives an overview of our sources of information, research methods, the technology of exploitation of natural resources and associated problems, and the environment in the mythical imagination of the ancient Greeks and Romans. Students learn to analyse the environmental problems faced by these ancient cultures and will apply what they learn to modern contexts.

2903

Greek and Latin Roots of Scientific Terms

is an overview of the Greek and Latin origins of modern scientific and medical terminology.

CR: the former CLAS 1900

3010

Greek Religion

(same as Religious Studies 3010) is a study of the role of religion in the private and public life of the Greek world. Topics include the Greek gods, religious rituals, sacred sites and temples, regional and temporal variations in religious practices, and the role of religion in society. The course may also compare ancient Greek religious practices and modern conceptions of religion.

CR: Religious Studies 3010, the former CLAS 3121, the former Religious Studies 3121

PR: there is no prerequisite for this course but students are strongly advised to have successfully completed at least one 1000- level or 2000-level Greek and Roman Studies course before registering in any 3000-level or higher Greek and Roman Studies course

3020

Roman Religion

(same as Religious Studies 3020) is a study of the role of religion in the private and public life of the Roman world. Topics include the Roman divinities, sacred sites and temples, the role of religion in politics and society, the interaction with and assimilation of foreign religious practices, and the rise of Christianity. Students may also compare Roman religious practices with modern conceptions of religion.

CR: Religious Studies 3020, the former CLAS 3121, the former Religious Studies 3121

PR: there is no prerequisite for this course but students are strongly advised to have successfully completed at least one 1000- level or 2000-level Greek and Roman Studies course before registering in any 3000-level or higher Greek and Roman Studies course

3030

Greece and Persia

is a study of relations between Greece and Persia from the foundation of the Persian Empire to the death of Alexander the Great. The course examines, and invites students to critique, the perceived dichotomy between "East" and "West," both ancient and modern.

PR: there is no prerequisite for this course but students are strongly advised to have successfully completed at least one 1000- level or 2000-level Greek and Roman Studies course before registering in any 3000-level or higher Greek and Roman Studies course

3040

Socrates and Athens

is an introduction to and examination of Socrates within the context of Athenian political, social, cultural, intellectual, and religious life, and against the background of the fifth-century enlightenment and the sophistic movement. The course also examines changings views and representations of the figure of Socrates from antiquity to modern times.

PR: there is no prerequisite for this course but students are strongly advised to have successfully completed at least one 1000- level or 2000-level Greek and Roman Studies course before registering in any 3000-level or higher Greek and Roman Studies course

3050

Augustus and Rome

is a course that examines transformations in Roman society and the city of Rome under the first Roman emperor (27 BCE to 14 CE). Topics include Augustan literature, art, and architecture, and the religious, social, and urban changes during this period. Students will also consider the ways in which later authoritarian regimes throughout history have appealed to the figure of Augustus as a model.

PR: there is no prerequisite for this course but students are strongly advised to have successfully completed at least one 1000- level or 2000-level Greek and Roman Studies course before registering in any 3000-level or higher Greek and Roman Studies course

3103

The Italian Renaissance and Classical Antiquity

introduces students to the reception of Greco-Roman antiquity in Renaissance Italy. Particular attention will be paid to the ways in which the cultural legacy of classical antiquity was studied, reinterpreted, and adapted to new uses by writers, scholars, artists and architects such as Petrarch, Machiavelli, Raphael, Michelangelo, and Alberti.

PR: there is no prerequisite for this course but students are strongly advised to have successfully completed at least one 1000- level or 2000-level Greek and Roman Studies course before registering in any 3000-level or higher Greek and Roman Studies course

3150

Early Christian Thought: The First Five Centuries

- inactive course.

3270

Christianity and the Roman Empire

(same as History 3270, Medieval Studies 3270, Religious Studies 3270) is a study of the relationship between Christianity and the Roman Empire from the first to the fourth century.

CR: History 3270, Medieval Studies 3270, Religious Studies 3270

3405

Tragic Drama in Greece and Rome

is a detailed examination of the tragic dramas of ancient Greece and Rome. A selection of plays by Aeschylus, Sophocles, Euripides and Seneca will be read in English translation. Topics may include the development of ancient tragedy, its literary, performative and thematic traditions, its representation of social and historical conditions, its influence on later tragic drama, and on modern theatre and film.

CR: the former Classics 2805

PR: there is no prerequisite for this course but students are strongly advised to have successfully completed at least one 1000- level or 2000-level Greek and Roman Studies course before registering in any 3000-level or higher Greek and Roman Studies course

3410

Comic Drama in Greece and Rome

is a detailed examination of the comic dramas of ancient Greece and Rome. A selection of plays by Aristophanes, Menander, Plautus and Terence will be read in English translation. Topics may include the development of ancient comedy, its literary permormative, and thematic traditions, its representation of social and historical context, its influence on later tragic drama, and on modern theatre, and film and television.

CR: the former Classics 2810

PR: there is no prerequisite for this course but students are strongly advised to have successfully completed at least one 1000- level or 2000-level Greek and Roman Studies course before registering in any 3000-level or higher Greek and Roman Studies course

3415

Epic Poetry in Greece and Rome

offers a detailed and in-depth study of the epic poetry of ancient Greece and Rome. The course will examine the poems of Homer, Apollonius of Rhodes and Virgil in English translation. Instructors may include additional poems. Topics to be discussed include the development of epic poetry, its literary traditions and its role in Greek and Roman society, and its influence on modern literature and film.

CR: the former Classics 2060

PR: there is no prerequisite for this course but students are strongly advised to have successfully completed at least one 1000- level or 2000-level Greek and Roman Studies course before registering in any 3000-level or higher Greek and Roman Studies course

3420

Lyric Poetry in Greece and Rome

- inactive course.

3500

Sport and Athletics in Ancient Society

traces the evolution of athletics and other forms of recreation in Greece and Rome, with emphasis on their religious, cultural, and social importance. Topics include sports in Homer, the concept of arete, the Olympic ‘ideal,’ gladiatorial contests, Greek athletics and the Roman Empire, and an analysis of ancient echoes in modern sport and athletics, e.g. the Olympic Games.

3501-3510

Special Topics in Classics

will have topics determined by the Department.

PR: there is no prerequisite for this course but students are strongly advised to have successfully completed at least one 1000- level or 2000-level Greek and Roman Studies course before registering in any 3000-level or higher Greek and Roman Studies course

3580

Bronze Age Archaeology of the Eastern Mediterranean

- inactive course.

3600

Ancient Myth and Cult

(same as Religious Studies 3600) develops the students’ knowledge of myth and material culture by examining specific religious sites in the Greek and Roman world as foci of ritual practice. Students learn to integrate knowledge of physical remains with literary and ritual evidence in order to obtain a more integrated understanding of religious life in ancient Greece and Rome.

CR: Religious Studies 3600

PR: there is no prerequisite for this course but students are strongly advised to have successfully completed at least one 1000- level or 2000-level Greek and Roman Studies course before registering in any 3000-level or higher Greek and Roman Studies course

3700

The Ancient World in Film

examines the representation of the history and cultures of the ancient world in film. A selection of films will be studied and extensive reference will be made to the ancient evidence that informs them. The ancient world’s impact on modern society will be considered together with the film industry’s recasting of the ancient world in response to modern social and historical developments.

PR: there is no prerequisite for this course but students are strongly advised to have successfully completed at least one 1000- level or 2000-level Greek and Roman Studies course before registering in any 3000-level or higher Greek and Roman Studies course

3710-3729

Special Topics in Classics: Harlow

is available only as part of the part of the Harlow Campus semester.

PR: there is no prerequisite for this course but students are strongly advised to have successfully completed at least one 1000- level or 2000-level Greek and Roman Studies course before registering in any 3000-level or higher Greek and Roman Studies course

3900

Greek and Roman Medicine

examines the medical theories and practices of the ancient Greek and Roman world by taking account of ancient texts (in translation) as well as evidence from material culture, including art and architecture. Topics may include the relationship between science and medicine, concepts of health and illness, the role of the healer, practical applications, gender differentiation of patients, and legacy of ancient practices.

PR: there is no prerequisite for this course but students are strongly advised to have successfully completed at least one 1000- level or 2000-level Greek and Roman Studies course before registering in any 3000-level or higher Greek and Roman Studies course

3901

Ships and Seafaring in the Ancient World

is an introduction to the maritime traditions of the ancient Greeks and Romans. It gives an overview of our sources of information, research methods, the origins and technology of shipbuilding, types of vessels, navigation, nautical infrastructure, and the sea in the mythical imagination of the ancient Greeks and Romans. Where appropriate, the course makes reference to modern elements such as hydraulic concrete, SCUBA diving, recreational boating and sailing, etc.

PR: there is no prerequisite for this course but students are strongly advised to have successfully completed at least one 1000- level or 2000-level Greek and Roman Studies course before registering in any 3000-level or higher Greek and Roman Studies course

3902

Ancient Greek and Roman Mathematics

introduces students to the way the ancient Greeks and Romans employed mathematics and refers, where possible, to preceding Egyptian, Mesopotamian, and Indian models. Students will learn about Greek and Roman number systems, numerals, time measurement, the Roman calendar, ancient surveying devices, and the use of the abacus. All sections of this course follow Quantitative Reasoning Course Guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/qr.

PR: there is no prerequisite for this course but students are strongly advised to have successfully completed at least one 1000-level or 2000-level Greek and Roman Studies course before registering in any 3000-level or higher Greek and Roman Studies course.

4000

Seminar in Greek History and Society

- inactive course.

4010

Seminar in Roman History and Society

is a seminar in Roman History and Society.

PR: there is no prerequisite for this course but students are strongly advised to have successfully completed at least one 1000- level or 2000-level Greek and Roman Studies course before registering in any 3000-level or higher Greek and Roman Studies course

4020

Seminar in Greek Literature and Culture

is a seminar in Greek Literature and Culture.

PR: there is no prerequisite for this course but students are strongly advised to have successfully completed at least one 1000- level or 2000-level Greek and Roman Studies course before registering in any 3000-level or higher Greek and Roman Studies course

4030

Seminar in Roman Literature and Culture

is a seminar in Roman Literature and Culture.

PR: there is no prerequisite for this course but students are strongly advised to have successfully completed at least one 1000- level or 2000-level Greek and Roman Studies course before registering in any 3000-level or higher Greek and Roman Studies course

4100-4109

Special Topics in Greek and Roman Studies

will have topics announced by the Department and may include field studies in topography, Greek and Roman art and architecture, archaeology, and related areas, to be held in the Mediterranean and other regions of Graeco-Roman influence.

PR: permission of the instructor and the Head of the Department

4999

Honours Essay

is a requirement of the Honours program.

AR = Attendance requirement; CH = Credit hours are 3 unless otherwise noted; CO = Co-requisite(s); CR = Credit can be retained for only one course from the set(s) consisting of the course being described and the course(s) listed; LC = Lecture hours per week are 3 unless otherwise noted; LH = Laboratory hours per week; OR = Other requirements of the course such as tutorials, practical sessions, or seminars; PR = Prerequisite(s); UL = Usage limitation(s).
16.3.3 Latin

All sections of the Latin language courses below, except CLAS 4999, follow the Language Study Course Guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/ls.

1120

Introductory Latin I

(same as Medieval Studies 1120) familiarizes students with the basics of the Latin language. Students will learn how to read simple narratives and short poems in Latin and examine the connections between language and culture. Evaluation will focus largely on comprehension of written Latin. All sections of this course follow the Language Study Course Guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/ls.

CR: Medieval Studies 1120

1121

Introductory Latin II

(same as Medieval Studies 1121) continues to familiarize students with the Latin language and Roman culture and society. Students will acquire a broad vocabulary, learn to read more complex passages of prose and poetry in Latin, and gain insights into key social concepts through study of language. All sections of this course follow the Language Study Course Guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/ls.

CR: Medieval Studies 1121

PR: CLAS 1120 or Medieval Studies 1120

2200

Intermediate Latin

(same as Medieval Studies 2200) provides a deeper knowledge of the Latin language while offering a window onto the culture and society of Ancient Rome. Students will read selections from works of history, literature, philosophy and oratory in Latin. All sections of this course follow the Language Study Course Guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/ls.

CR: Medieval Studies 2200

PR: CLAS 1121 or Medieval Studies 1121

3200

Advanced Latin

(same as Medieval Studies 3200) provides advanced knowledge of the Latin language while offering a window onto the culture and society of Ancient Rome. Students will begin to apply their knowledge to the close reading and interpretation of major works of Latin literature. All sections of this course follow the Language Study Course Guidelines available at www.mun.ca/hss/ls.

CR: Medieval Studies 3200, the former CLAS 2205

PR: CLAS 2200 or Medieval Studies 2200

4202

Medieval Latin

- inactive course.

4205

Latin Lyric Poetry

PR: CLAS 3200

4210

Latin Historians

PR: CLAS 3200

4215

Latin Orators

PR: CLAS 3200

4220

Latin Hexameter Poetry

PR: CLAS 3200

4225

Latin Epistolography

PR: CLAS 3200

4235

Latin Philosophical Authors

PR: CLAS 3200

4240

Latin Drama

PR: CLAS 3200

4245

Latin Elegiac Poetry

PR: CLAS 3200

4250

Latin Satire

PR: CLAS 3200

4265-4275

Special Topics in Latin Readings

will have authors and readings selected by the Department.

PR: CLAS 3200

4291

Special Authors

PR: CLAS 3200

4999

Honours Essay

is a requirement of the Honours program.

PR: CLAS 3200

AR = Attendance requirement; CH = Credit hours are 3 unless otherwise noted; CO = Co-requisite(s); CR = Credit can be retained for only one course from the set(s) consisting of the course being described and the course(s) listed; LC = Lecture hours per week are 3 unless otherwise noted; LH = Laboratory hours per week; OR = Other requirements of the course such as tutorials, practical sessions, or seminars; PR = Prerequisite(s); UL = Usage limitation(s).