Introduction to Greek and Roman Literature

Principles and Practice of Literary Method

Successful students will begin to apply principles and practice of literary method with specific reference to ancient texts.

Ancient Literary Works

By studying Aristotle's Poetics and then analyzing subsequest readings in epic poetry, tragedy, and philosophy in light of the Aristotle's ancient literary criticism students will be able to begin reading Greek and Roman texts (in translation) with a uniquely ancient perspective. They will be able to better understand all ancient literary works.

Literary History of Classical Literature

Students will begin to understand the literary history of Classical literature in the larger context of political and cultural history.

Evaluating Texts

Students should be able to evaluate texts through close reading and express the results of this evaluation in essays.