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Ancient Studies

Undergraduate

Are you interested in ancient Greek and Roman civilizations, in how they relate to one another or to ancient India?

Program Overview

Does the prospect of courses in ancient art, literature, history, philosophy, and religion appeal to you? If so, then you should consider a major (or minor) in ancient studies, a program that approaches these ancient civilizations from an interdisciplinary and inclusive perspective. Currently, majors may choose from among three concentrations: art historical/archaeological, historical, or literary/mythological. With the help of an advisor, you can select courses from among a range of offerings in the departments of classics and Italian, art history, Asian studies, philosophy, politics, and religion.

The Ancient Studies major and minor are available only to students who entered the College before fall 2024. Students entering fall 2024 or later should instead refer to Classical Studies.

Community Voices

Spotlight on Ancient Studies students and alums

Emily Isakson ’19

Then and now: Emily Isakson ’19

Emily Isakson ’19

she/her

Emily Isakson ’19

Ancient education, modern opportunities

Emily Isakson ’19

Gina Ciralli ’14

Forging a career in the museum world

Gina Ciralli ’14 Project coordinator, “Inside Out,” Philadelphia Museum of Art

EXPLORE MORE STORIES

Courses and Requirements

Learning Goals

Learning goals for students of classics and ancient studies are:

  • To analyze critically ancient Greek and Roman texts, in their original languages and in translation, within their literary, philosophical, and historical contexts.

  • To understand major monuments and artifacts within their historical and cultural settings; to develop a visual literacy of ancient art and sharpen the ability to see and express what one sees.

  • To imagine fully and creatively ancient cultural communities when relying on limited written and material remains.

  • To deepen the understanding of current problems by studying the responses of ancient Greeks and Romans to questions about the human condition, including, how to live well, and how to govern. 

  • To write and speak more confidently and effectively, and to develop well-reasoned arguments using primary evidence and/or secondary material, including print and digital resources.

  • To expand intellectual breadth through studying the ancient Greek and Roman worlds through different disciplines and modes of inquiry.

Contact Us

Department of Classics and Italian

The Department of Classics and Italian oversees programs in ancient studies, classics, Italian, Greek and Latin.

Denise Falk

Denise Falk

  • Academic Department Coordinator

Next Steps

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