The Department of Classics offers three major programs: one with a focus on language and literature (Classics), one with a focus on classical archaeology (Classical Archaeology), and one that looks at the ancient world from varied perspectives (Classical Studies). Students pursuing these majors are encouraged to study not only the languages and literatures but also the physical monuments of Greece and Rome. This approach is reflected in the requirements for the three major programs: for all, requirements in Greek and/or Latin and in classical culture must be fulfilled.
The classics program is arranged to accommodate both those students who have studied no classical languages and those who have had extensive training in Latin and Greek. The objective of classics courses is to study the ancient languages and literatures in the original. By their very nature, these courses involve students in the politics, history, and philosophies of antiquity. Advanced language courses focus on the analysis of textual material and on literary criticism.
The major in classics consists of ten courses. At least six of the ten courses are to be chosen from offerings in Greek and Latin and should include at least two courses in Greek or Latin at the 300 level. Of the remaining courses, one should be chosen from Archaeology 101 or 102, one should be chosen from Classics 101 or 102, and one should be chosen from Classics 211 or 212. Of the courses a student wishes to count towards the major, at least one at the 300 level should be taken during the senior year. Students concentrating in one of the languages are encouraged to take at least two courses in the other. As a capstone to this major, a research seminar taken in the junior or senior year is required; a research seminar is one in which a substantial research project is undertaken and successfully completed. Courses are so designated in the course descriptions.
Within the broader context of classical studies, the classical archaeology program pays special attention to the physical remains of classical antiquity. Students studying classical archaeology should develop an understanding of how archaeological evidence can contribute to our knowledge of the past, and of how archaeological study interacts with such related disciplines as philology, history, and art history. In particular, they should acquire an appreciation for the unique balance of written and physical sources that makes classical archaeology a central part of classical studies.
The major in classical archaeology consists of ten courses. At least five of the ten courses are to be chosen from offerings in archaeology, and should include Archaeology 101, 102, and at least one archaeology course at the 300 level. At least four of the remaining courses are to be chosen from offerings in Greek or Latin, and should include at least one at the 300 level. As a capstone to this major, a research seminar is required.
The Classical Studies major provides a useful foundation for students who seek a multi-disciplinary view of the ancient. The major enfolds coursework in an ancient language (Greek or Latin) with classes that explore the culture, history, and traditions of the ancient Mediterranean.
The major in classical studies consists of ten courses. At least eight courses must be selected from within the department. A minimum of two classes should be elected in a single ancient language (Greek or Latin). The appropriate level depends on the student’s preparation and is determined by the department. The remaining classes should include: Classics 101, 102, 211, and 212; at least one course in Classical Archaeology; at least one and not more than two classes outside the department of Classics and chosen from the following (or from other appropriate offerings in these disciplines, with classics department approval): Anthropology 102 or 221; Art History 213 or 215; Government 240; Philosophy 111; Religion 106, 215, or 216; English/Theater 106; and at least two advanced courses in the department at the 300 level, one of which must be a designated research seminar. As a capstone to this major, a research seminar taken in the junior or senior year is required; a research seminar is one in which a substantial research project is undertaken and successfully completed. Courses are so designated in the course descriptions.
The department participates in an interdisciplinary program in archaeology and art history. A student wishing to pursue one of these majors needs the approval of the departments concerned.
Students may choose a minor in one of five areas:
Other courses in the Bowdoin curriculum may be applied to this minor if approved by the Classics Department.
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Bowdoin College · Brunswick, Maine · 04011 · 207-725-3000